Need help from current RN's in Columbia area

[lots-of-questions]

I'm seriously considering a change of career, and I'm looking for some advice from current RN's on this forum. I'm the kind of person that does plenty of research and puts a great deal of thought into decisions like this, and part of my research is reaching out to people already in this field.

I currently have a degree in another field and work full-time, so my options are somewhat limited. I've narrowed my plans to applying for Columbia College and seeking their Associate in Science in Nursing degree. I know I could take the RN exam after graduation, but I'm not sure how hospitals look at ASN versus BSN RN's right out of nursing school. I've also looked at average salaries for RN's in the area, but I'm not sure if the degree affects that either.

What I'm looking for is some help with RN's who currently work in a Columbia area hospital (Boone, Regional, or University) and can share some personal experience with their education and rough average for their starting salary. I hesitate to ask for that information, but I really need some help in that area. Since I'm already in a full-time situation with a decent salary, I need to be sure what I've read is correct about my current salary being comparable to entry level RN's at hospitals. I currently make around $40k with NO benefits, if that helps.

Just so you know (and before anyone says anyting), I know nursing is not about the money. I wouldn't be considering nursing if I was just concerned about money. I am currently a minister, so I'm obviously not overly concerned with salary. I have a sincere desire to help people, as a people-person, and a career change to an RN is looking very good right now.

Thanks ahead of time for the help!