Your SAT scores are low. That being said, your “life story” reads like a person who has succeeded in the face of much adversity. Can I make a suggestion? I think given how strong your grades and potential are, if you go for schools in the next category down and really focus on what you want, your results will be great. I really like your interest in genetics and how you have work experience. Can you build up your interest there by getting a Summer job ( even volunteering in a lab?) Also, any way you can get a science teacher ( female) to mentor you and point you towards others who can help you?
My suggestions would be to really work on individual parts of the SAT ( break it down and master it). Then focus on your interest and get very specific. I think you will do well in many respects. I wish you the best of luck.
Final suggestion would be to expand beyond CA where your competition will be stiffest. Apply to schools on the East Coast or in the Midwest who also offer the same expertise. There you would be someone from the opposite coast and there will be less students from CA applying.