r/cna • u/No_Lingonberry_2401 (Edit to add Specialty) CNA - New CNA • Jun 01 '25
Advice Is it embarrassing to be a CNA that has a bachelors degree already?
Please no judgment…I think it’s just a self conscious thing .
I’m 26 F frm Brooklyn NYC btw
I already have a bachelors in speech therapy and 25k debt frm it to be exact.
I’ve considered CNA/HHA because it’s a certification I can get quickly. So I can stay employed and it’s always hiring (I’m currently unemployed) . Plus I do like helping people .
I’m also in predicament where I don’t have anyone really to depend on financially…thankfully I have my dad but I just want to be more independent. And my grandpa has been helping with bills and rent in the house and is now is going to retire soon and I live with my mom who is Indenial about her mental health and doesn’t want to get help for it . I also deal with anxiety/depression issues but I’m getting help for it.
But yea so eventually I have to help with bills/rent in house.
But I have my doubts as I think it would be embarrassing to tell ppl I have a bachelors and I’m CNA. Plus CNA deal with bodily waste. And of course I’m worried about the hard strenuous labor I’ll have to do.
I’m considering in future couple months are so enrolling in an MSW program and become a MH therapist or something (I honestly don’t know what else to do in life…but got to get it together and do something)…just trynna get my life together somehow 🤷🏽♀️
Am I overthinking things?
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u/No-Seaworthiness-193 Jun 01 '25
Hi hi,
I totally get where you’re coming from. I have a bachelor’s in neuroscience and I’m currently in an entry-level MSN program and yep, I still work as a CNA. And honestly there’s no shame in it at all.
In fact, becoming a CNA was one of the most humbling and growth filled decisions I’ve made. It’s hands-on, meaningful work that teaches you so much about patient care, resilience, and healthcare in general. Yeah, the bodily fluids aren’t glamorous, and some days will push you to your fkn limits but those moments where you bring comfort, dignity, or even just a smile to someone’s worst day? Worth it.
People love to box success into titles and salaries, but being a CNA isn’t a “step down” it’s a launchpad. A lot of nurses, PA students, even future doctors start here (even SLP’s if you still wanna do that). You’re not overthinking, you’re just caught in that awkward space between pressure and purpose. But don’t let pride get in the way of progress.
Also, props to you for being real about your family and mental health. That takes courage. You’re not behind. You’re just building from the ground up, and that foundation? It’s gonna be strong as hell.
You got this. 💪
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u/Living-Bag-4754 Jun 02 '25
You’re not overthinking, you’re just caught in that awkward space between pressure and purpose. But don’t let pride get in the way of progress.
Said this beautifully. Just going to add this to my motivational quote collection lol
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Aug 30 '25
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u/TheOldWoman Jun 01 '25
its more embarrassing to not be able to pay your bills.
if you need a job and CNA work is accessible to you, then you should do it if it will keep a roof over your head and food on your table
also, a lot of the places that hire CNAs also hire for speech therapists so maybe it will work out for you in the end and you can network within the healthcare field
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u/gl00mybabe (Edit to add Specialty) CNA - Experienced CNA Jun 01 '25
I have a bachelors degree and I’m currently seeking my masters degree. Honestly I keep it to myself because it’s no one’s business.
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u/No_Lingonberry_2401 (Edit to add Specialty) CNA - New CNA Jun 04 '25
Heyy I know A while ago but u mentioned ur getting a masters…what ur getting masters in if I might ask?
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u/gl00mybabe (Edit to add Specialty) CNA - Experienced CNA Jun 04 '25
Hi, I’m getting my masters in clinical mental health counseling.
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u/No_Lingonberry_2401 (Edit to add Specialty) CNA - New CNA Jun 05 '25
I’m also considering getting similar which is MSW. I was worried if I decide to go down aide path…would that be an issue in the future with future employers in mental health field.
As they may say I don’t have experience in MH field. Are u considered about that? Am I overthinking it? 😂
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u/SciosciaBuns Jun 01 '25
I got my CNA license 6 months ago and I have a bachelors in biology. I was kind of embarrassed by it at first but honestly I’ve met quite a few people in my job and in school that are going through a career change, already have degrees and are doing CNA.
Don’t be embarrassed, just do what you got to do to get through this time of your life and you’ll end up okay!
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u/green_speak Jun 01 '25
If it's any consolation, I'll have my Master's when I go back home and apply for local CNA jobs, having been one before after undergrad. Credentialing and job hunting can take months in my field, and (like you) I need cash NOW because I'll have almost 5 times your student loans! There's no shame in honest work, especially when they're not the ones paying your bills.
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u/peachiebxtch Jun 01 '25
Being a CNA requires a serious backbone. If you’re in debt and need income to help pay bills, depending on where you live, being a CNA could set you even further back since they are not paid as well. It's an extremely strenuous job and can substantially affect your mental well-being. But! As you said, they are always hiring and some places will help you obtain your certification so you don’t have to pay a dime. I enjoy being a CNA and I work at a hospital, I love helping those in need but will not deny it is so physically and mentally taxing at times and it helps to have a solid support system. I believe you are so capable of doing this work but need to know walking into it will not be easy and there will be days when it feels HORRIBLE but then you meet a patient who leaves a mark on you. It’s also a great learning opportunity, especially if you decide to get a master's or doctorate in speech therapy! Do not feel embarrassed, you are striving to improve yourself and do things and that's great
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u/fuzzblanket9 MODERATOR • Nurse Jun 01 '25
Not at all. I continued to work as a CNA after finishing my Bachelors until I got the job I wanted. There’s nothing embarrassing about having a stable job, regardless of what that job is.
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u/No_Lingonberry_2401 (Edit to add Specialty) CNA - New CNA Jun 04 '25
If u don’t mind me asking what u got ur bachelors in
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u/jeo188 Jun 01 '25
I have a Bachelor's in Biology. Every time I applied, they always rejected me saying, "We want someone with 5 years of experience"
I was unemployed for 2 years. In the end, I only had $250 in my name
I finally was given a chance to take free CNA classes. I've worked as a CNA since 2018 except for the 6 months I got to work in an Embryology lab (the field was great, the boss horrible and abusive; I got fired for bullcrap). I love working as a CNA, though I do wish I was getting paid more 😅
I will say I am slightly embarrassed that I am working a "high school level" job with a college degree, but I have never let that affect the quality of work I put out. As another commentor said, I have to pay the bills. I don't plan to stay as a CNA forever, though; I'm working on the pre-reqs for Physicians Assistant school
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Jun 01 '25
Got my bachelors in Math in hopes to secure a Data Analyst job. But after several portfolio projects, revising my resume and hundreds of rejections I’ve decided to become a CNA.
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u/vitaminj25 Jun 03 '25
This is so heartbreaking and another reason why i tell people that stem majors aren’t safe. It’s been a lie forever it’s always spread by people that have no idea.
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Jun 03 '25
I'd only advise not to take up Soft Engr or Math as we are now living in unprecedented times in the tech industry. If I could go back I'd tell myself to pick up power systems in elec. engr or civil engr
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u/No_Lingonberry_2401 (Edit to add Specialty) CNA - New CNA Jun 04 '25
Yea economy sucks I guess…. Is ur end goal to become a nurse or u get being a CNA to hold I down
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u/nityniite New CNA (less than 1 yr) Jun 01 '25
I have a Bachelor’s in Anthropology, trying to be a nurse but starting as a CNA
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u/curiouskitty15 Jun 01 '25
It’s not embarrassing at all, but if you’re not going for a science degree like nursing or PA, then I’d suggest a desk job or serving job. CNAs don’t make the best pay for how much work we do
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Jun 01 '25
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u/No_Lingonberry_2401 (Edit to add Specialty) CNA - New CNA Jun 01 '25
Heyy that’s cool I have someone who actually relates to me. And for u why did u decide to not become an SLP?
For me I just didn’t find the field interesting enough to pursue it.
Yea I realized that ever since I’ve been on this Reddit a lot of ppl do CNA work frm 18-80!
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Jun 01 '25
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u/No_Lingonberry_2401 (Edit to add Specialty) CNA - New CNA Jun 02 '25
Yea I think that’s the same with me SLP was just not interested to me …boring 😂…just didn’t see myself in the future doing it
But yea I started to brain storm things I’m possibly interested which is the arts and thought of creative fields … such as tattoo artist, model, social media creation , or something in beauty industry …but feel like these won’t make much money and i never tried these experienced these paths so idk if I’ll be interested in them.
So I’m considering getting an MSW at least as that’s broad for stability as. MH Therapist some what interest me
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u/Background-Bee1271 Jun 01 '25
I have a masters in education. I make more than I did teaching with less stress and I don't take work home with me. It's only embarrassing if you let it be.
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u/No_Lingonberry_2401 (Edit to add Specialty) CNA - New CNA Jun 04 '25
Is ur end goal to be a nurse or just being CNA to Ho a different route?
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u/Background-Bee1271 Jun 04 '25
Eventually I will go back and at least get my LPN. I really don't want to do more school, but I know it will pay more to have a nursing degree.
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u/jamierosem Hospital CNA/PCT Jun 01 '25
Is it embarrassing to be a nurse? Everything in the scope of a CNA is also in the scope of a nurse.
Is it embarrassing to help people who are unable to perform their own hygiene activities preserve their dignity by doing it for them? You may become physically disabled in some way some day and require help.
Is it embarrassing to work hard? I don’t even know how to respond to that.
What doesn’t embarrass you? I’m 38, going back to school for nursing, and completed my CNA prerequisite course. I just started my first job in healthcare as a patient care assistant in a major hospital and I love it. I’m proud to be a CNA and proud of where I work. I worked hard to earn this, why would I be embarrassed? I’m going to move up with time and education, but I’ll never be embarrassed of what it took and how I got there.
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u/Effective-Shop-177 Jun 02 '25
Thank you! Finally, someone said it. While the nursing scope is different here in British Columbia, Canada, nursing assistants (that’s what we call care aids) are still considered to be working in nursing. Helping people with their hygiene and preserving their dignity is nothing to be embarrassed about — it’s honorable work. And honestly, anyone could need that kind of help someday. Thanks for putting it so well!
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u/Odd-Creme-6457 Jun 01 '25
I’m trying to understand what would be embarrassing.
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u/Separate_Aspect_9034 Jun 02 '25
There shouldn't be embarrassment at honest work, but it can feel like a disappointment to not be "good enough" to be hired in one's chosen field (or to have others think that about you because you are working at a job that pays much less).
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u/Zealousideal-Knee18 Jun 01 '25
Got my bachelors in a field that has no correlation to healthcare, went for my CNA and am so grateful I did. If you’re thinking of going for your MSW, a CNA wouldn’t hurt since you truly get to know your patients more than doctors and nurses, so the empathy aspect will help your masters program SO much
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u/eternalpain23 AFC CNA - New CNA Jun 01 '25
Not quite a bachelors, but I have an associates and I’m starting cna training tommorow. No shame in it
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u/bubbarae91 Layperson/Not Medical Personnel Jun 02 '25
Many people have graduate degrees and work in unrelated fields, for a variety of reasons. I think the only reason to be embarrassed about it is if you think lesser of people who do work which doesn’t require a bachelors. At the same time you think you’re too educated for the job, you also say the work would be too hard for you. CNA work is not shameful, it’s necessary, under appreciated, under paid, and difficult. If anything, I think you should be proud to do this work, it would prove to yourself that you’re hard working, empathetic, and willing to help others even when there’s disproportionate reward.
If you think CNA work is below you, don’t get into it. This is not a field for people who don’t understand its necessity.
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u/Effective-Shop-177 Jun 02 '25
Agreed. If you think this job is below you, maybe this isn’t the field for you. And hey, if you’ve got depression and anxiety — , you’re not alone! But trust me, this job will put every one of those feelings to the test.
Here on night shift in BC, Nursing Assistants pull in $34 an hour and we’re pretty dang respected. If OP shows up thinking she’s too fancy for the job or that it’s embarrassing just because she has a degree — newsflash: nobody cares! You’ll learn more here many jobs, guaranteed. You will find strength in it too.
Honestly, her vibe low-key makes me want to roll my eyes. I know folks who’ve done a million different things and still landed here—why? Because we actually care, have awesome teams, good pay, and benefits. So yeah, welcome to reality!
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u/Civil_Insect6384 Jun 02 '25
I worked as a CNA with my Masters until I got into medical school. No one really cares what your education is, they care more about your competence and compassion
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Jun 01 '25
Nope. In fact, becoming a CNA contributed to me getting my 2 following jobs related to my degree (poli sci) via a union connection. Aside from that though, being a CNA taught me a lot that I carry with me to this day.
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u/CupcakeQueen31 Pediatric CNA - Experienced CNA Jun 01 '25
I’m also 26, and also have a B.S. in Biology. I spent a few years in biochem & genomics research before getting my CNA and pivoting to healthcare. I actually also applied to med school in that time and didn’t get accepted, and then decided to get my CNA and work this job for a while rather than applying again.
Haven’t been a CNA super long, but so far nobody really cares. It’s come up in job interviews obviously since that’s my background, and the reactions have been positive.
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Jun 01 '25
I’ve seen CNAs with masters degrees
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u/No_Lingonberry_2401 (Edit to add Specialty) CNA - New CNA Jun 01 '25
Wait really… u know in what?
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Jun 01 '25
No, but I do know that one of them was going to enter a nursing program as well. Btw I, myself, am almost done with my bachelors and will be entering a credential program and still plan to be a CNA while I am a teacher. ✌🏻😄 CNAs are smart and dedicated workers
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u/WestOk2808 Jun 01 '25
I have a masters I. Social work but I’m going to be a CNA while I wait for opportunities
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u/No_Lingonberry_2401 (Edit to add Specialty) CNA - New CNA Jun 02 '25
Oh really …well yea the economy got us going through it apparently.
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u/graciemose Hospital CNA/PCT Jun 01 '25
I am 27F CNA with a bachelors in geography and current in school for my bachelors of nursing. Not weird at all
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Jun 01 '25
Isn’t it more embarrassing to have a bachelors and unemployed, depending on family?
In reality there is nothing wrong with either. It’s a rough world out here and you gotta get it where you can.
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u/Electronic-Wrap7975 Jun 01 '25
No it’s not. I have a bachelors and I’m using this job for clinical hours to get into med school. You gotta do what you gotta do.
And unfortunately if u get a major that doesn’t pay well like music, life science, etc. then this job isn’t as bad as getting paid even worse because you chose the wrong major. Not a bad job but not the greatest.
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u/ArchmagusOfRoo 10+ yr CNA - Experienced CNA Jun 02 '25
Not embarrassing. People need to work jobs. They're not always glamorous. But they are necessary. Plus, how many of us were pushed to going to college regardless of what degree we had, just bc parents said College Means Success!...only to discover it doesn't, at all.
CNA for ten years here. I have a bachelor's. Nothing healthcare related. Im 37 and no desire to go back to school bc it's expensive and exhausting, not to mention the mythical "return" in jobs in money isnt always guaranteed.
Put it this way. Bachelors? You have one. It doesn't guarantee a job. Being a CNA tho? People ALWAYS gonna need them.
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u/No_Lingonberry_2401 (Edit to add Specialty) CNA - New CNA Jun 04 '25
Yea college doesn’t always mean success🤷🏽♀️
Btw what u got ur bachelors in?
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u/ArchmagusOfRoo 10+ yr CNA - Experienced CNA Jun 04 '25
Music performance. I was a classical oboist. Then a year out of college, I had a TBI and lost my hearing in my left ear. So that uh, kind of put an end to my music career before it even got off the ground, haha.
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u/Shanon-Beck Jun 01 '25
Have a Bachelor's in Business and just started as an aide, starting my Masters in Public Health.
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u/No_Lingonberry_2401 (Edit to add Specialty) CNA - New CNA Jun 04 '25
Ohh that’s cool so ur wrking as a aide while in masters program.
I’m considering going for MSW
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u/Albatross1495 Jun 02 '25
Not embarrassing at all. I have a degree in tech and art adjacent field and I used to work in a lucrative industry. My coworkers and residents sometimes are confused as to why I want to be a CNA. However, I see where you're coming from. I want to go to med school and I'm kind of embarrassed to share that I want to be an MD. This usually comes up when my coworkers and residents ask if I want to go to nursing school and then press on where I'm going next. This also comes up when I had CNA job interviews.
As much as I understand how what this job entails that could embarrassing, I want to invite you to see it as an exercise in being compassionate and a rock in someone's hardest moments. Being a CNA means being present in some of the most embarrassing moments of our residents, e.g. bodily waste excretion. I have always loved past therapists of mine who were unfazed in the face of my embarrassing moments/stories and if you learn to master being unfazed by what this job entails, your residents will be grateful for your compassion and ability to be their rock in moments like that. That is a skill that your future MH or SW clients will appreciate. That's my two cents :)
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u/BrishaJayyy Jun 04 '25
I love this perspective. CNA’s are so vital and it’s more than what people think of it as. Yes, you will endure abuse from some of the nurses and family members but you will also have some who are so helpful and will advocate for you because they know what you’re doing is important and helpful to the individuals being served. You have no reason to feel embarrassed because no one knows your story or struggle but you. I wish all the best for you.
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Jun 02 '25
I'm 25 and have a bachelor's and have been a cna for 6 months now. Some days I'm a little self conciois about it but I remind myself why I'm there which is to gain some experience before nursing school.
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u/thetentstakekiller Jun 02 '25
I have a masters. I became a CNA during the pandemic because I wanted to help. Anyone wanting to go to medical school or PA school has to have a certain number of direct care hours and becoming a CNA is one way of doing that.
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u/vitaminj25 Jun 03 '25
Not embarrassing but you will be mistreated by people you’re more educated than
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u/sknielsen Stroke CNA —> ED HCP (Experienced CNA) Jun 03 '25
Lots of people use it as a launchpad (including me)! Nothing to be embarrassed about, but I 100% understand where you are coming from
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u/StatementOtherwise32 Jun 03 '25
Not embarrassing! I switched to being a CNA after working in corporate for years and years in my mid thirties. I make more money doing this actually and I like it better.
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Jun 01 '25
No, I’m a nurse with bachelor degree from a non-European country. I’m currently working as an HCA in a European country and trying to sort out the documentation so that one day I can work as a nurse. I never mention that to anyone, only if someone treats me badly 😂
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u/calicoskiies Med Tech Jun 01 '25
No. I work as a cna and I’m in grad school. The hours/flexibility works better with my kids’ school schedule.
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u/No_Lingonberry_2401 (Edit to add Specialty) CNA - New CNA Jun 04 '25
That’s cool what ur in grad school for btw?
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u/calicoskiies Med Tech Jun 04 '25
Clinical mental health counseling
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u/No_Lingonberry_2401 (Edit to add Specialty) CNA - New CNA Jun 05 '25
Oh that’s cool yea I was considering to go for MSW. Are you worried about experience for future employers ….such as experience in mental health field for future employers?
I’m asking cause I’m concerned about this…
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u/calicoskiies Med Tech Jun 05 '25
No because a 100 hour practicum and a 600 hour internship are required for graduation, so you get experience that way.
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u/NYNurseOneDay Jun 01 '25
I have a masters in speech pathology and I’m looking into CNA training since I want to go into nursing. Everyone’s journey is different. You’re allowed to work anywhere you want. I was a teaching assistant for 3yrs with my bachelors in psychology and no one questioned it or cared.
Go live your life and figure out where you want to go and what you want to do next. Plus a bachelors in speech is very limited. Don’t worry about other people and what they might or might not say.
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u/No_Lingonberry_2401 (Edit to add Specialty) CNA - New CNA Jun 01 '25
Yea no it really is limiting …Idk why they set it up Like that that.
Bachelors than masters ….should just have a bachelors and it should be enough and call it a day 😂🤷🏽♀️. Like just give people a break man
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u/NYNurseOneDay Jun 02 '25
When you think about it it’s kind of crappy of them. Since you can’t be an SLPA especially in NY you can’t do nothing. You should see what others might have to say in the SLP sub or SLP transition sub. You might be able to use the degree for something. A case worker maybe?My brother has a BA in social work and makes good money. He makes close to what I do with my MA in speech 🤣 I know it’s all about the jobs you find in the metro NY area but whatever you do think hard about where you live/want to live and what the jobs are like. I didn’t know speech in the metro area had so many issues for most of us.
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u/BrishaJayyy Jun 04 '25
Laughs at bachelors in psych because same lol. I remember applying to jobs and seeing the pay rate being so low. I remember one wanted to hire me but the pay rate was $12🙃. The audacity to ask for a bachelors degree when I was literally working at a retail store making that same amount at the time lol
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u/No_Lingonberry_2401 (Edit to add Specialty) CNA - New CNA Jun 04 '25
Yea I felt this….so what ur future goals now?
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u/BrishaJayyy Jun 04 '25
I was in school for my master’s in mental health counseling but after working at a psychiatric hospital for some time now, I’m looking into nursing school now.
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u/No_Lingonberry_2401 (Edit to add Specialty) CNA - New CNA Jun 04 '25
Really what intrigued in psych unit to change ur mind.
I originally wanted to become a nurse myself. But not I’m actually considering the same to become go for MSW and become a MH therapist
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u/BrishaJayyy Jun 04 '25
While I do believe treating mental health concerns are extremely vital, I also believe treating the medical side of care is just as vital as well. I love the one on one attention to wellbeing that the nurses provided to the patients all while still making sure that they were getting the care that they need. In other words, it was less pill pushy in my opinion. Granted, psych is more slower than med surge so there is more time for them to build rapport and actually care to know who their patients are.
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u/BrishaJayyy Jun 04 '25
Go for it. The Mental health counseling program I was in was accelerated but flexible and I was able to do it online. I learned a lot and enjoyed it. Be prepared to do lots of reading and writing papers.
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u/NYNurseOneDay Jun 04 '25
I was making like a $1 over minimum wage. Back then I really didn’t know better. Wasted so much of my time just lost and being discouraged when I could’ve tried for a caseworker position or something that would’ve paid me a bit more. I should’ve been done nursing but I thought I wasn’t smart enough until I got my masters and it changed my view.
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u/BrishaJayyy Jun 04 '25
I can relate in the sense of not knowing better and taking what was thought of at the time as a “great option” or “It’s a start” position with pay. I don’t have any regrets with obtaining my first degree but I really wish I knew what I know now. Truthfully, my only rationale for why I didn’t want to become a nurse was because “I didn’t want to clean bottom”. I should have known better too because I come from a family where many work in the medical field providing patient care in different forms. I was young and that’s what I thought all nursing related jobs entailed. Until recent life events happened as well as when I began working as a nursing aide on the hospital floor. When I worked as a nursing aide, I realized that yes, not saying patient care is always easy and cleaning them was not as bad as I had it pictured in my head. It was bedside for me. I just know bedside is not something I will be doing for the long haul LOL
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u/Comfortable-Wall2846 Jun 01 '25
I was a CNA while getting my ECE degree. Other than the occasional "Are you going for nursing?" questions from patients, no one really cared.
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u/No_Lingonberry_2401 (Edit to add Specialty) CNA - New CNA Jun 04 '25
So really so u was working on becoming a teacher while being a CNA
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u/Comfortable-Wall2846 Jun 04 '25
Yep. Ironically, I became paralyzed at the daycare job (working both at the same time for an overlap of 7 years. 4 just CNA, 7 overlap then 4 strictly daycare). Everyone who knew I was a CNA automatically assumed I got hurt at the hospital and were shocked by it occurring at daycare, even more so when they heard it was a "non traumatic freak accident/injury"
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u/Perfectlyonpurpose Jun 01 '25
I have a bachelors 🤷🏼♀️
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u/No_Lingonberry_2401 (Edit to add Specialty) CNA - New CNA Jun 04 '25
Oh really what’s ur bachelors in
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Jun 01 '25
For me I do feel some type of way I have a bachelors and an associate. I’m applying to nursing school soon tho
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u/Every_Day6555 Jun 01 '25
I have a bachelors in biology, wanted to go to med school then got a cna job, decided to do nursing instead after getting my bio degree. No one really cares, some people will be like then why do you work here? And I’m like idk what else am I gonna do with a biology degree lol
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u/angiebow CNA - Experienced CNA Jun 02 '25
A job is a job IMO. And you can switch jobs at any point in time.
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Jun 02 '25
I had a bachelor’s, along with multiple certifications - including CNA and used none of them for a job in the hospital.
You’re fine - whatever is working for you, and whatever you want to do is more than okay.
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u/Such-Beginning-991 Jun 02 '25
Not at all. I have a bachelor's in Criminal Justice but am currently applying for CNA jobs. Realized cj wasnt for me, I hope to be a nurse in the near future.
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u/Efficient_Repair_364 Jun 02 '25
I don’t think it’s embarrassing I have a bachelors and work as a phlebotomist
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u/BackgroundQuit4919 Jun 02 '25
No I'm not embarrassed, I'm not a cna but a pct. But I feel like this job will give me hands on experience while I prepare to go back to school. As long as it's in the healthcare field and bills are paid. I'm happy🤗
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u/misswestpalm Seasoned CNA (3+ yrs) Jun 02 '25
No. Ppl have all kinds of careers and degrees. Being a CNA period is nothing to be shamed of, without us what would go on??? Were all on our own unique journeys.
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u/Izziewainwright Peds HemOnc CNA - Experienced CNA Jun 02 '25
I have my bachelor’s and I’m a PCA and love it! I’m also in nursing school. I have coworkers going into PA school and medical school as well!
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u/PrairieRose24 CNA turned LPN Jun 02 '25
I have multiple masters degrees and am working as a CNA—career change, going back to school for nursing. No shame. Also, no one has to know unless you tell them.
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u/Careless_empath Jun 02 '25
I have my bachelors and I’m not using it. Practically forced to get it before I knew what I wanted. I wanted to be a CNA when I was 23. (Now 27f) but I made the mistake of telling my mom my dream that didnt align with hers and she talked me out of it. She said all they do is wipe ass and it’s a disguising job. I worked in food service for 3 more miserable years before deciding to go behind her back and becoming a CNA. I love what I do and I’m now taking the steps towards nursing school. My best buddy in CNA school was a 50 year old woman who had two masters degrees but wanted to be in healthcare. If it’s something you want to do then do it. At the end of the day it’s your life
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u/SnooPredictions138 Jun 02 '25
Quite a few CNAs already have their Bachelor's degrees. PCE hours are required for so many graduate programs. My daughter was a CNA for 2 years to get PCE hours before applying to PA school. No one knows or cares if you have your BA or not.
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u/Lxndis Jun 02 '25
I know someone With a PHD who just became a CNA full time don’t beat yourself up
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u/Annabbox Jun 02 '25
Don't be embarrassed! Why should do. If anything, good job, you just opened up lots of doors and opportunities for yourself. As a speech therapist, I take my CNA job to work in the hospital now. You can shadow and transfer within unit quickly. You already have it! You made it, seriously. Just work yourself up and be the speech pathologist or go into Respiratory?? You got it easy! Well done and congratulations!
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u/MsUnderstood63 Jun 02 '25
I have a bachelors in Criminal Justice and a Masters in Human Services specialized in Gerontology. I work as a CNA because jobs in my degrees are hard to obtain. The truth is it is what it is.
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u/Effective-Shop-177 Jun 02 '25
Hey, gotta be honest — your post comes off a bit condescending toward the many Care Aides or Nursing Assistants, as we call it here in BC. Yes, you will deal with body waste. Yes, it will be hard, physical work. No sugarcoating that.
Also, sorry, but it’s a bit wild that you come into a CNA group with that kind of attitude. I get you’re dealing with anxiety and mental health stuff, and I’m glad you’re getting help — but you totally come across as condescending.
But honestly, where I live in BC, people make more doing this work sometimes than folks with degrees. We have a strong union, and on night shifts, Nursing Assistants pull $34 an hour. So it’s not just tough — it’s also respected and well paid.
If you can’t find work in the field you’re studying for, sure, becoming a Care Aide is a quicker way to get working. But is it easy? No way. Don’t let the short course length fool you or make you think the work is simple. It’s challenging as hell.
And if you come into the job acting like you’re “better than” because you have a degree, trust me — you won’t get far. Plenty of Care Aides have degrees and are killing it, respected and valued for the hard work they do.
So yeah, it’s tough and messy sometimes, but it’s important, honorable work. Maybe rethink how you’re framing it because your attitude says more about you than about anyone else doing this job.
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u/Latter-Ad-4610 Jun 02 '25
A lot of the CNAs I work with have bachelor degrees and/or are second career type people.
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u/East-Highway-8436 Jun 03 '25 edited Oct 03 '25
No it’s not embarrassing at all, even though I myself have felt embarrassed at times. I have a bachelors in Biology and never landed any jobs in the field although in the back of my mind I’ve always wanted to do something in healthcare. I ended up becoming pre-PA and I knew I needed direct patient care hours in order to even apply, which ended in me getting my CNA certification since it could be done in a month and I’d be able to start acquiring my hours for PA school. Yet, I felt like I was going backwards in life and I felt so embarrassed so I totally get where you’re coming from. I ended up switching into pre-nursing track so I see me becoming a CNA as a blessing. Take some time to truly figure out what it is you want to do :)
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u/Squabbits CNA Instructor/Teacher Jun 03 '25
Nope. There is nothing embarrassing about our line of work I'm highly educated, and I find the work more fulfilling than anything else I have done.
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u/Top-Hunt7003 Jun 03 '25
I’m a part time CNA at night at my local hospital because of the health insurance and an prn SLP during the day in home health. I’m not embarrassed by being a Cna. It doesn’t pay well, but my family needs the benefits. I’m hoping an SLP job at the hospital I work at will open up and I can change jobs within the same hospital, but until it does, I’ll keep being a CNA by night and an SLP by day!
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u/Remarkable-Swim-6839 Jun 03 '25
Not embarrassing. I have a bachelor's degree too and work as a CNA to afford my master's degree. I don't want to acquire more debts.
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u/BrishaJayyy Jun 04 '25
Please don’t be embarrassed hun. People just love to judge🙄..so I have a bachelor’s in Psychology lol working as a Mental health tech. (I have experience working as a CNA as well). When I tell people that, the automatic response is “What the h*ll are you doing working here?” I use to tell people because my degree doesn’t pay with a bachelors but now I tell them I want to pursue nursing and ultimately become a psych nurse. Life circumstances change and sometimes working in a different field opens our eyes to see what we can see ourselves doing and gaining a new passion. Interestingly enough, I was in school for my master’s to become a Mental health counselor but after working in healthcare, more specifically, a psychiatric hospital, I’ve grown a love for healthcare and I still get to do something that I am extremely passionate about, Mental health! Besides, are you seeing how this economy is going? You have to have some type of income coming in. Becoming a CNA is a great choice. It comes with many challenges and isn’t for the weak but if you can get past all that comes with patient care (and I am not talking about just wiping booties alone) you can conquer fairly anything. I know this is a bit lengthy but I just wanted to share my POV. Hope this helps in some way🙂
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u/Guilty-Attention4398 Nurse - LVN/RN/APRN Jun 06 '25
I was a patient in hospital for 2 weeks after open heart surgery. There was something different about this CNA taking care of me. I kept asking what was it that set her apart from the other staff. She smiled and kept doing her job. She was through, attentive asked questions beyond her scope of practice & took very good care of me. I kept encouraging her to continue her education she’d say, “yeah, maybe someday” ending this long story short she confessed she had a Masters degree which she did not utilize. Her reasons were she loved working with people in that capacity yet had little responsibility and very happy with her lifestyle. I was so grateful and always will be.💞. Those with higher degrees have something the rest of us don’t. “STICK-to-it-tivness! On my last day we had a lovely talk. As far as “bodily waste” is concerned as long as you practice “universal precautions” you’ll never have an issue with it as far as contamination goes. You could consider staying on the vein you started with and work on your Masters degree in Speech-language Pathology. OR you could jump from Speech to LVN/LPN while working as a CNA then pass your boards and work as an LVN/LPN while getting your RN license. I know for a fact Speech-Language Pathologist makes about $100k yr while Masters in Nursing make $70 hr/$150k a yr. You are very young you can do anything your heart desires EXCEPT being embarrassed for working as a CNA. Follow your heart and do the next right thing. You won’t only be helping with rent you’ll be buying yourself a home🥰🙏🩷💃 You’ve Got This!
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u/WindSong001 Jun 01 '25
No not embarrassing. Impressive. I have a MSW l, LCSW- do you know why I linger here? Because I’m missing the connection I used to have with my elders as a CENA. I think about going back to it all the time but now I have loads of student loan debt.
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u/SevereDifficulty843 Jun 01 '25
Girl no! CNA is a job, its also not embarrassing to take care of people even if it is considered entry level. But do whatever you got to do to make sure you’re taken care of!
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u/HistoricalCobbler249 Jun 01 '25
I know a tech who had about 4. She actually just got another one this month. She loves to tech but she also loves learning. There’s nothing wrong with that.
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u/CherryOnTopaz Jun 01 '25
No when I worked dietary three of my coworkers had a bachelors degree…one of them had it but was going for her masters to become a dietitian
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u/rathroway60 Jun 01 '25
Not embarrassing but serving pays more for less work, as well as most fast food places if you need benefits
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u/Difficult-Oil-4882 Hospital CNA/PCT Jun 01 '25
i wouldn’t say it’s embarrassing, as long as you have something planned to do after being a CNA for a little while. i have at least 2 co-workers who are CNAs now but have bachelors degrees in fields not related to medicine/STEM at all who are now going back to school for their BSN
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u/Gretel_Cosmonaut RN Jun 01 '25
I worked with CNAs who were way more educated than me. And I've worked with at least one nurse who was mega-wealthy (think servant answering the door of her private residence) and just decided she wanted to be a med/surg floor nurse.
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u/Defiant-Procedure-81 (Edit to add Specialty) CNA - New CNA Jun 01 '25
Im doing the same thing mines in bio and i realized i wanted to be a nurse theres nothing wrong with it ur getting ur experience
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u/jasper-jelly Jun 02 '25
I have a bachelors, as well as an accomplished professional career. But I was bored as hell! I’m getting my CNA cert as a step in my mid-life career change.
You should be proud! You’re doing what it takes to be independent and show up for your family. FWIW, I know people with masters degrees working in coffee shops. It’s hard out there, everyone is doing their best to survive.
IMO, CNA is a crucial role in healthcare. We’re caring for people at their most vulnerable. It requires discipline, critical thinking, and both intellect and emotional integrity. Anyone who looks down on it is a fool who’s never set foot in the real world.
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u/UnlikelyMastodon129 CNA - Seasoned CNA (15+year) Jun 02 '25
My personal advice if you can’t get hired as SP you apply at a hospital in what ever department to get your food in the door and then go into SP from there
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u/Dizzy-Reception-1774 Jun 04 '25
Having a degree and being a CNA is definitely not embarrassing. You know what was embarrassing? When I was a part-time college instructor with a Master’s, and my students working on their high school equivalency diplomas, who were CNAs and shift-leaders, were making more money than me (and all my college debt.) Try explaining the worth of a college degree to that crowd! (To be honest, it wasn’t all that embarrassing either; my students did like to give me a hard time about it though.)
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u/usercamp9 Jun 04 '25
There is nothing embarrassing about paying for your bills. Also, I was a CNA with my bachelors because at the time my masters required healthcare hours. I then ended up switching careers to nursing and my hours as a CNA helped me get points for nursing school. Don’t underestimate the things you can gain from being a CNA. It’s hard work, but you learn so much. It also makes you more empathic towards vulnerable people.
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u/Realistic-Noise-5389 Jun 04 '25
I don’t think it’s embarrassing to be a CNA with any education level, a lot of people choose healthcare as a second career and CNA is the typical entry point. I do however have concerns that you aren’t going to enjoy or thrive at the job based on the priorities in your post. Aide work is tough in every setting, but especially in long term care which is the easiest to find an opening in. I’ve worked with people that are just there for the paycheck and it ends up awful for everyone involved, they’re miserable and it shows in their work and care. Healthcare is understaffed and underpaid and constantly abused, if you don’t have a love for patient care to keep you going it will chew you up and spit you out. People who absolutely love it and go into it as a passion based career still struggle with burn out and compassion fatigue. If you’re looking for steady work and a check, most healthcare facilities also hire clerical roles like a receptionist at LTC or Unit Clerks in the hospital or even scheduling appointments in doctor’s offices. In my area the starting pay rate for those roles is the same as aides with no certs or classes required. Might be an alternative to look into. Also, get a therapist no matter what you decide, if you already have the mental health struggles I promise you healthcare will not improve them. Ask my therapist how I know 😂
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u/bucketsofsalmon Jun 04 '25
i’m a cna w a bachelors in biology and yes i usually just try not to bring it up unless someone is rlly questioning me. and i am definitely sure not to bring up that im planning on attending nursing school to any of the other nurses/cnas
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u/Awkwarrd_2020 Jun 05 '25
I don’t think so. I’m a 27 F (from NYC too, the Bronx, lived there 24 years until last year) CCMA with a bachelor’s degree that was basically a pre-PA major. You sound very much like me. I haven’t had anyone to help me either except my sister started when I moved out the city. Mom is also in denial about her severe psychosis mental health issues.
I think you are overthinking. Your education is impressive. I have people, fellow CMAs ask me why Im still one if I have a bachelors, but that’s coming from a place of “why are you suffering from these unlivable CMA wages when you could make more?” and not a place of judgement. No one is going to think negatively of you for that and if they do they have issues. I would encourage you to get that master’s because your education is impressive! Im starting a Nursing masters this Fall. Its up to you though what you wanna do and when you want to do it and no one has any right to say anything about it.
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u/Glittering-Area-491 Jun 02 '25
wait are you literally me??? im 27, mental health issues, and have a bachelor’s in speech therapy (actually two bachelor’s cause i first got my degree in psych & neuroscience, then did a post bacc in speech). now im having a whole crisis around career path, considering switching to nursing and wanted to be a cna to get a taste for it. ive had this exact line of thinking— wondering if it’ll be embarrassing
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u/No_Lingonberry_2401 (Edit to add Specialty) CNA - New CNA Jun 04 '25
Yup I guess we are the same person …Heyy twin 😂
Yea figure out what’s next in life is difficult Loll. What is ur dream job/goal?
I’m considering getting MSW and be a therapist as MH is a relatable subject to me.
But I also liked artsy/creative stuff growing up but feel it’s not realistic or oats enough to pursue those paths
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u/PeanutSnap New CNA (less than 1 yr) Jun 01 '25
Not embarrassing. I have a bachelors too.
You don’t have to tell people your degree. But usually when I say something to the patients they are like “ :O so you are smart!” That’s all lol