Keck Graduate Institute Master of Science in Human Genetics and Genetic Counseling
Keck Graduate Institute Master of Science in Human Genetics and Genetic Counseling School Profile
SCHOOL PROFILE
Keck Graduate Institute
Master of Science in Human Genetics and Genetic Counseling
Letters of Recommendation
Yes, three letters
Resume or CV
Yes
GPA
The school lists on its site that a minimum 3.0 cumulative undergraduate grade point average (on a 4.0 scale). If a GPA is below 3.0, applicants must address their low GPA in their application. Further instructions on how to do this can be found in the application.
GRE
No
Living in California
Cost of Living in California
Infamous for its peerless surf culture, picturesque national parks, and expansive wine country, California has become a renowned and cherished vacation spot within the United States. Nested on the west coast and alongside the Pacific Ocean, California remains one of the widest states in terms of land mass and population.
With over 39.51 million inhabitants calling this state their home, ambitious professionals are streaming to California for its multiculturalism, proliferating business prospects, and marvelous cities to inhabit. If you're relocating to California take a gander at homes available in this famed 'Golden State'!
The cost of living is substantially greater than the national average. Housing costs are the primary factor driving this discrepancy, however groceries, transportation, and utilities all surpass normal figures.
State taxes can be costly. The California state sales tax rate stands at 7.25%, neither the highest nor the lowest in the country. In addition, local jurisdictions may impose an additional 0.10% to 1.00% on top of that amount. Income tax rates range from 1% to a high of 13.3%, depending on filing status and income level; California having one of the highest rates in the nation, with the maximum rate applied to those earning over $1 million per annum.
California undeniably relies on a "pay to play" system, making it hard to enjoy all the state has to offer without comfortable annual earnings. California's three leading cities are counted amongst the most extravagantly priced areas across the nation. Not only are California's sales and income taxes among the highest in America, but its gas prices are also unrivaled.
A vast land of unspoiled beauty, California has something for everyone. From lush redwood forests to cliff-lined beaches, soaring mountain ranges to scorching hot deserts and miles of verdant farmland, this awe-inspiring state is a humbling expanse of natural wonders. A remarkable 4.31% of the United States is California - larger than the entirety of Germany and 1.7 times bigger than the United Kingdom - making it the third largest state in terms of land area behind Texas and Alaska.
Covering a majestic 163,696 square miles, the state of California spans from its Mexican border to the boundaries of Oregon. With such expansive region to traverse, cars are the main source of transportation for most residents living there. Although some neighborhoods may be walkable, it is only possible to travel between cities by car since everything is so dispersed. As of 2019, approximately 15 million vehicles were registered in California. With scarce public transit available, one must prepare for hefty traffic coverage and lengthy commuting periods.
California boasts the highest number of national parks throughout the United States, with nine in total - even surpassing Alaska! Living in California puts you moments away from an unforgettable experience at a national park and some of the most impressive hiking trails in all of America. Regardless of where you reside within California, you are never more than one day away from a memorable adventure.
With 840 miles of beach-lined coastline, you can choose from an array of shorelines to plant your beach umbrella and soak in some sunshine. For a remarkable adventure, venture to Pfieffer Beach in Big Sur and marvel at the purple sand caused by manganese garnet runoff from nearby cliffs. If you prefer to don hiking boots rather than sandals, California offers plenty of trails too - visit Muir Woods for stunning views of redwood trees, or traverse Joshua Tree National Park where the Mojave and Colorado deserts collide. Explore Yosemite National Park's spectacular waterfalls and revel in this state's every flavor of outdoor recreation.
In order to determine where to settle in the state of California, one must consider the divergence between Northern and Southern California. Commonly dubbed as NorCal and SoCal, both regions offer contrasting lifestyles, culture, and aesthetic to those looking for a new home.
Northern California is known for its cooler and rainy weather, while Southern California enjoys consistent sunny desert temperatures. It can take anywhere from 4 to 8 hours of travel between them.
San Francisco is the epicenter of culture in Northern California, while Silicon Valley epitomizes innovation and progress. In distinct contrast, Southern California boasts Los Angeles, San Diego, star-studded Hollywood, sun-kissed beaches, and famous personalities.
Though both regions provide a plethora of amenities and chances to expand, rivalry remains the defining factor that divides them. To ensure you get the most out of your Californian experience, carefully explore both the North and South. Dive into all the opportunities these distinct regions have to offer and find out what makes them unique.
Living in Los Angeles, California
What is Los Angeles Like?
Thinking about Los Angeles? The famous City of Los Angeles lies in the southern region of California, continuing to captivate its inhabitants with dreams of fame and fortune. Boasting a population of almost 4 million, it is one of the most sought-after places to reside in California.
This bustling metropolis consists of five counties: Los Angeles, Orange County, San Bernardino, Riverside and Ventura. Currently, the total population is estimated at 13.2 million individuals as of 2022. If Los Angeles were its own state, it would be the 7th most populous state among all fifty others! Clearly, countless people are enticed by L.A.'s offerings - and for good reason!
Los Angeles County is home to a grand total of 87 other cities, including the commonly referred to "LA" cities such as Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, and Santa Monica. This fascinating map illustrates how many states have fewer residents than Los Angeles County.
Prized for its cultural plurality, individuals arrive from far and wide with aspirations to turn their aspirations into reality. Blessed with stunning natural scenery, phenomenal weather year-round and plenty of things to do, Los Angeles continues to be renowned worldwide.
Los Angeles is a place of striking contrasts and extremes: the towering, sometimes-snowcapped mountains clashing with the scorching 100-degree heat of the Valley; multi-million dollar mansions standing against makeshift tents; glorious sunshine juxtaposed against fearsome floods. These prevalent contradictions render LA almost unfathomable, easily explaining why it's wrongly characterized and deeply misunderstood.
Los Angeles locals relish the opportunity to embrace nature's beauty. From trekking along untrodden pathways to cycling along picturesque coastlines or taking their pooch to the local park, exciting escapades are everywhere. The spectacular Santa Monica, San Gabriel, and San Bernardino mountains present the perfect backdrop to embark on a rejuvenating journey of exploration. Who knows what remarkable sights you could uncover – especially that captivating cityscape!
Acclaimed for its spectacular 75 mile-long shoreline, life in Los Angeles is incomplete without visiting the beach. Boasting some of the United States' most pristine and renowned beaches, the Los Angeles International Airport, or LAX, resides close to one. To soak up all of this city's natural beauty, nothing beats spending a day lounging on white sand beneath the sun. Hop in your vehicle and take a drive down Pacific Coast Highway - California's most beautiful coastal route - to explore the beach destinations throughout the greater Los Angeles metropolitan area.
High Cost of Living in Los Angeles
Beaches, Hiking, Mountains, and Parks Galore
Living in Los Angeles, like other parts of California, comes with a hefty price tag. The city's cost of living is a staggering 43% higher than the national average, though still cheaper than New York City. Before relocating to Los Angeles, it's wise to save up at least $10,000 and an extra $5,000 to cover one-time expenses and any unexpected costs. With such high costs of living, moving here without any financial cushion is ill-advised as it can be difficult to make ends meet. Although it's achievable to live comfortably on a budget in LA, having money saved up will significantly reduce anxiety levels about paying for things.
Rents for one-bedroom apartments have soared to $1,369, as reported by Apartment List. These exorbitant prices are due in part to a current housing shortage, resulting in a highly competitive market. The good news is that both house buying and rental markets have commenced leveling off.
For an individual to live comfortably in Los Angeles, an average annual salary of $75,000 is needed. If you have a family and aspire to save more money or live luxuriously, a higher wage is warranted. Those making $40,000 per year or the minimum wage may find it more feasible to seek out good roommates away from the city core and take advantage of free activities and public transport.
Los Angeles, CA, Quick Stats
Metro Population 18,628,215
Median Home Price $836,831
Median Age 36.9 years old
Median Monthly Rent $1,685
Average Commute 31 minutes
Unemployment Rate 12.6%
Average Annual Salary $63,056
The hefty traffic in Los Angeles is not to be underestimated. With the extensive city's population relying on cars and its size making it difficult to get around any other way, the highways are consistently congested. It is especially tricky to get from A to B during rush hour—between 7am and 10am and 4pm and 7pm throughout the week.
Weekends prove to be especially taxing, with hours spent stuck in traffic a common headache. Consider researching times for your commute before deciding on a housing situation; living close to key destinations might be worth the additional expense. Other alternatives include carpooling, public transport, biking, or walking as viable methods for dodging busy roads.
Books on Tape, Podcasts, and Great Playlists Help with Traffic
