Grade 1 View – S2, E11 – The Truth About Your First Year as a CRNA

Beyond The Mask: Innovation & Opportunities For CRNAs · May 26, 2026 · 45m

What really happens after CRNA school ends?

In this episode of Grade 1 View, former host Kevin Chem, DNP, CRNA returns to the show nearly a year into practice to talk honestly about the transition from SRNA to CRNA, from the stress of boards and credentialing to the emotional reality of walking into the OR independently for the first time.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

📚 Consistency and repetition matter more than using multiple study resources

🏥 The first few months as a CRNA come with real growing pains

🤝 Strong workplace culture and mentorship matter more than people…