Kim will be traveling all over Southern California touring and learning about some of the best universities California has to offer. Follow her here for her insights into the various colleges -- what they're like and what it takes to get in!
Pomona College
WHY IS THIS SCHOOL AWESOME?
Kim: Why isn't this school awesome?! First of all, Pomona College is the #1 Liberal Arts college in the United States, and it's easy to see why. Professors are accessible all the time, each student is part of a sponsor group (which is basically a built-in group of friends), professors and students throw parties together to get to know each other better, student research is on display all over, there are multiple OUTDOOR CLASSROOMS, there are orange trees around campus that students can pick from, and perhaps my favorite perk: all incoming freshman have the chance to participate in Orientation Adventure. Incoming freshman can choose from a wide range of activities, including: taking a trip to Yosemite, going backpacking, visiting the Sequoias, going kayaking or surfing, volunteering, going to the beach, and so much more! Students are put into small groups for these events, and the whole thing is paid for by Pomona College-- amazing! And side note, Forbes just named Pomona College the #1 college in California.
FAVORITE SPOT ON CAMPUS?
Kim: Tie between the Physics Quad and Skyspace. The Physics Quad has life-size physics "toys" that students can use at any time. About Skyspace: "Between the sunset and sunrise programs the canopy of the Skyspace is illuminated. Every hour on the hour, there is a brief (3 minute) chime of light." (link)
The Physics Quad
Skyspace
5 WORDS TO DESCRIBE CAMPUS?
Kim: OPEN, SUPPORTIVE, SAFE, HELPFUL, FRIENDLY.
THE "TYPICAL STUDENT" IS...
Kim: Engaged, smart, supportive and applied.
Our tour guide, a freshman at Pomona College
INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE?
Kim: Perhaps one of the greatest things about Pomona College is that students can choose to live in specific language halls. Within these halls, no other languages are to be spoken, so students are completely immersed in the culture. There are also many language courses as well as international relations and ethnic studies majors.
SPECIAL PROGRAMS/OFFERINGS APPLICANTS SHOULD CONSIDER?
Kim: Students are encouraged to take advantage of free music lessons while attending Pomona!
Music Auditorium
TIPS FOR THE APPLICATION PROCESS?
Kim: Test scores are a big deal, but the essay portion is huge. While the college approaches applications in a holistic way, they were very honest about how important the essays are, saying they're a way for Pomona to understand what kind of person the applicant is. Pomona also recommends scheduling an interview.
Smith Clock Tower
FUN FACTS?
Kim: Because Pomona College is part of the Claremont Consortium, students can take courses at the other colleges (Harvey Mudd, Pitzer, etc). Pomona College is also home to the largest telescope in the world dedicated to undergrad students! AND, Pomona offers many great (and free!) events: Clippers games (including transportation), beach trips, etc.
Be sure to check back soon for more college tours!