Goal Certified Diabetes Educator

As having Type 1 Diabetes for over 25 years, I've moved to become an educator this past year. I'm almost done with my pre-reqs and am applying to CSUN's ABSN program next month. Just did step one by applying as a graduate student. (Yes, I'm in California)

Is anyone on here a CDE already and able to help me through this process? There is such a huge demand out there for this growing epidemic. My own clinic doesn't even have a full-time CDE on staff, they fly one in from NY for a week once a month!

Things I specifically need to know:

who are my best referral letter candidates at this point?

is the BSN the best way to go? I know I could do nutritionist, but heard from people in the field that if they did it again they would have gotten their RN first instead.

Will my ultimate goal help in the application process, in other words, do you think it help me get accepted? Do schools know that there is a shortage of CDEs?

Help with my personal statement. Am I playing up my personal experience with diabetes, too much?

I know a lot to ask, but I figured now is the best time to be asking and rather than come in with "help me", I thought if I came in with specific need to knows it would lead me to the right path a bit more efficiently.

Thanks for everyone's help.