Columbia University Genetic Counseling Graduate Program
Columbia University Genetic Counseling Graduate Program School Profile
SCHOOL PROFILE
Columbia University
Genetic Counseling Graduate Program
Resume or CV
Yes
GPA
On the school program site it states that the admission committee looks for applicants who have received As and Bs (more As than Bs). However, it recognizes such grades are not possible under all circumstances. A final grade lower than C- in any required course is regarded by the committee as an unsatisfactory completion of our requirements.
GRE
Information not on the schools website
Other Information
A minimum of 40 hours of interactive client experience is required
Living in Manhattan
The infamous Big Apple, the City that Never Sleeps, the Capital of the World: no matter what you call it, life in New York keeps the energy levels high. Whether it's savoring a new restaurant or taking in a Broadway play, there's always something new to experience. The diversity of this city is remarkable - from Astoria to Brighton Beach to Chinatown you can hear almost any language spoken and try delectable dishes from around the globe. Despite its vibrant reputation, New York can also be an affordable place to live. With student discounts and cheaper eats options, having a graduate degree doesn't necessarily mean draining your bank account.
Experience life in a unique way by living in New York City, dubbed the "Capital of the World" due to its globally renowned media, culture, and finance. With all kinds of career prospects and entertainment options available, NYC offers denizens an intense East Coast lifestyle. Although it can be pricey to live there, there are few places in the world that offer as much history, culture, employment opportunities, shopping arcades, dining spots, and nightlife as this metropolis does. Stretching over 306 square miles, it is also the largest city in the US; thus divided into five major boroughs - The Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens and Staten Island, each with their own distinct neighborhoods. Uncover all there is to know about living in New York City below.
Many mistakenly believe Manhattan to be comprised solely of towering edifices and business districts, however it actually offers a multitude of neighborhoods with distinct living styles and price points. Those seeking the convenience of a park setting such as Central Park should consider the Upper East Side or Upper West Side; otherwise, Inwood situated at the top of the borough is an ideal option for peaceful family life with easy access to lush green spaces.
Younger individuals seeking a more creative lifestyle may be best served by relocating to Chelsea, the East Village, or Chinatown - lively neighborhoods that brim with youthful energy. These areas have excellent ties to Manhattan via convenient train lines, which can take you from Williamsburg in no time at all. For those residing in Chinatown, you can even take a pleasant bike ride over the Brooklyn Bridge into Brooklyn. Once there, Bushwick, Bed-Stuy and DUMBO are great options for those hoping to enjoy an exciting nightlife and some shopping.
Manhattan Neighborhoods
With New York offering virtually anything one could imagine, we wanted to highlight a few particular areas: Neighborhoods, Transportation, and Cost of Living.
Manhattan Neighborhoods
Manhattan neighborhoods can range in size from a single block to an entire mile. Manhattanites are fiercely proud of their 53 distinct neighborhoods, each offering something special. Here are several of the most distinguished districts within Manhattan.
Tribeca
Nestled in the illustrious triangle beneath Canal Street, Tribeca is the epitome of Manhattan neighborhoods, according to Business Insider. Residents relish this affluent district's safety and upscale atmosphere - with its exquisite dining opportunities and boutique shopping - while renters can expect to pay approximately $4,100 per month on average for a one-bedroom apartment. What makes Tribeca truly special is its proximity to other elite districts such as SoHo, Greenwich Village, and Downtown; furthermore, the nearby Hudson River Park grants respite seekers a tranquil spot for picnicking or an invigorating jog along the waterfront.
SoHo
Situated south of Houston St lies the fashionable district of SoHo. Filled with iconic cast-iron structures and carpeted in cobblestone streets, SoHo is among Manhattan's most sought-after neighborhoods. It was cultivated by 20th century artists attracted to its broad loft spaces and warehouses, fostering a unique community that now encompasses every amenity imaginable and a range of boutique stores. Its distinct architectural features and cobbled alleyways make it ideal for photographing quintessential New York City images, as well as secluded side streets where one quickly forgets they are in the bustling city center.
Gramercy Park
If you desire a taste of the city life yet are yearning for a sense of seclusion, Gramercy Park may be the ideal locale for you. This residential district, established in the 1800s as a haven for affluent Manhattanites, is situated just a short skip away from Union Square subway station where one can traverse to almost any area of the city. Gramercy Park is renowned for its impeccable brownstone houses and immaculate streets. Access to the namesake park itself is exclusive; only those who dwell along its borders can obtain cards granting entry to this coveted green space.
Lower East Side
The Lower East Side, erstwhile home to some of Manhattan's best dive bars, continues to set the tone for incomparable nightlife experiences in the city. Despite the emergence of luxury apartments and shops, it preserves its authentic charm and easy-going ambience. While time has claimed several of its notable venues for live music, there are still havens like Pianos and Bowery Electric that champion local artists. Visit during the day to take a pleasant stroll along the East River and to marvel at breathtaking sights from atop the Brooklyn Bridge.
Meatpacking District
Nestled between Ninth Avenue and Hudson Street, is the Meatpacking District this charming 44 acre neighborhood runs from West 14th Street to Gansevoort Street. Thanks to its cobblestone streets, nearby High Line, chic lounges and eateries, plus Little Island and the famous Whitney Museum, the Meatpacking District stands out as one of Manhattan's most cherished destinations. It also serves as an impressive backdrop for viewing spectacular Manhattanhenge--when the rising or setting sun is perfectly aligned with the east-west avenues of Manhattan.
Taxis
When opting for a taxi ride in New York, keep in mind that tipping around 20% is the norm. Payment by credit or debit card can be made in all NYC taxis, with the gratuity factored into the fare directly on the screen. Do note that taxi availability plummets during peak hours of 3-4pm, which are when many cabs are taking their break.
Subways
Subways provide a faster, more dependable alternative to buses, unencumbered by traffic congestion. Metrocards are attainable at station counters and automated machines. Take note that some tracks host Express trains, which halt only at certain stations of the line, as well as Local trains, which stop at each station. Check your desired station (noted next to it on any subway map) for corresponding trains; then ensure you get on the right one. When exiting a subway station, note the direction you intend to go; exits are typically marked Northeast corner of 59th and Lexington or Southeast corner of 59th and Lexington to help ascertain your cardinal directions.
Buses
Navigating New York City is made easier with its vast bus routes extending to all five boroughs, particularly for those living in Staten Island with only one subway line. Despite their convenience, travelers should be aware of traffic delays that can render routes unpredictable. Fares require exact change and no dollar bills are accepted, but Metrocard payments are a viable option. For those unfamiliar with the city, buses make for a great introduction, enabling them to remain above ground and gain an understanding of the layout from an elevated perspective.
With your Metrocard, take advantage of free transfers from local bus to local bus, subway to local bus, and bus to subway within a two-hour window. That means if you take one of these modes of transport for lunch and get back on it within two hours, the second trip is absolutely free! Express buses are excluded from this offer, so be sure to double-check which bus you board.
Train Stations and Bus Stations
Located between 31st and 33rd Streets, as well as 7th and 8th Avenues, New York Penn Station is an integral hub of transportation in the city. Amtrak trains traverse the Northeastern Corridor from Washington D.C. in the south all the way to Boston in the north, while NJ Transit traverses upstate New York from Jersey. Additionally, Long Island Railroad extends out east to Long Island and various subway lines (1,2,3) and buses (M4, M7, M20, M34, Q32) stop near or at Penn Station. Megabus, Greyhound Bolt Bus, and Eastern Shuttle also run bus services from Penn Station to destinations throughout the Northeast Corridor.
Getting Around Manhattan
Manhattan is the Definition of High Cost of Living
Unsurprisingly, living in Manhattan is expensive, with costs amounting to 50% more than the American average. "New York City prices" infiltrate nearly all aspects of life here from groceries to utilities and rent to personal services.
Renting is highly expensive in this metropolitan area; the cost of living remains one of the most extravagant in both the United States and internationally. Presently, leasing a one-bedroom apartment (between 500-700 square feet) in Manhattan usually costs anywhere between $2,250-$3,200 per month; however, some neighborhoods are slightly less expensive. On the other hand, studio apartments (500 square feet) will run approximately between $1,700-$2,000 per month.
The expense of living in Manhattan may be substantial, depending on the neighborhood, which is why many opt to share an apartment with others for cost efficiency. However, there are plenty of perks to life in Manhattan as it offers various free activities such as soaking up the rays at Coney Island and the Rockaways, enjoying Shakespeare plays at Central Park, or simply taking a break in one of the city's community gardens. Additionally, you can avoid costs typically associated with car ownership such as payments and insurance since your landlord or management company handles maintenance and water fees.
When you sign a lease for an apartment in NYC, in addition to the monthly rent, you may have to pay for the first month and last month's rent up front. There may even be a Broker’s Fee that is charged for the unit, so it is important to prepare your budget accordingly ahead of time. Aside from rent expenses, utilities such as electricity and Wi-Fi can pose a hefty financial burden if you are not mindful of usage during sweltering summer months. Usually utilities cost between $40-100 per person each month.
Other costly factors impacting the cost of living in the city are transportation and groceries. Economize your rides by cycling or opting for the subway ($2.75 each). If possible, walk to your destinations; it is not only free but also healthy. Groceries in New York are expensive, so hunt for reasonable alternatives such as Whole Foods, Trader Joes, or local bodegas on every street corner. As many city dwellers are car-less, they have to make multiple visits for their grocery needs rather than cramming all items in one go. To avoid this hassle, turn to grocery delivery services such as Amazon Fresh or Instacart instead. Moreover, dodge convenience stores where prices tend to be marked up than regular supermarkets and opt for home cooked meals over dining out for more savings on food.
