When we were kids, our parents, peers, and local clothing stores made a big deal about what we wore on our first day of school. Your outfit was a confidence booster and your first impression, so you looked for your prettiest dress or coolest new sneakers.

We’re not kids anymore, but you may still find yourself with similar jitters when you’re standing in front of your closet deciding what to wear to your first CNA class. It’s the first day of an exciting new career, after all. Allow us to help you make your first-day prep a little easier.

Wear Something Practical

CNA classes are a great way to meet new people, but it isn’t the social circus you experienced in high school. And it isn’t a job interview either. Don’t stress dressing to impress, and don’t worry about going out and buying a new set of scrubs either. (First Coast’s classes all take place in a classroom, anyway.) Focus on wearing clothes that lend themselves to moving around and practicing nursing skills. Also, closed-toed shoes are a must.

Wear Something Comfortable

When we say comfortable, we don’t just mean clothes that feel nice. It can be intimidating learning something new, and you may feel out of your element. While you shouldn’t stress getting “dolled up,” feel free to wear something that makes you feel more comfortable and confident in your own skin. If you feel best in jeans and a little make-up, wear jeans. If sweats and a messy ponytail, wear sweats.

Wear a Thinking Cap and a Smile

The most important things to wear to your first CNA class aren’t external. Start with your mindset. Even if you don’t have any medical background, are you walking into the school prepared to learn all you can? Do you have the materials to help you learn, like notebooks and writing implements?

And what about your attitude? It’s ok if you’re nervous. Even if you don’t feel confident, try to remind yourself countless CNAs have gone through the same training you have. You already know how to become a nursing assistant in Florida—now all you need to know is that you have what it takes to do it.