Graduated from an engineering school and worked as an engineer for 5 years until last year (as I was laid off). Always had an interest in alternative medicine but has not really come up until recently. First my interest was in Nutrition and researched programs but found them too \"clinical\" until I found Bastyr\'s website. There I discovered a ND program (did not know one existed until then). So I am trying to do more research, and taking classes to fulfill some prerequisites. I am doing so much better as a student now compared to the student I was about 6 years ago.

Here are my questions:

1) What sort of work experience should I be looking for to get a better understanding of what a ND does (I live in PA!)?

2) How hard is it to be accepted into an accredited program? (how competitive are they?)

3) What type of students are these programs looking for? (will I be accepted even though my undergrad grades are basically CRAP!)

4) Spoke to one my professors about my interest in becoming a ND was basically against it because it was not a MD.

5) What is the typical salary for a ND?

I know this is a really long message, I just do not have anyone to speak to about this. I am planning to call some of these schools soon to get an interview. Hopefully late summer/early fall, but I would like to get as much information as I can.

Thank YOU!

Janey