<p>I feel like parents on here may give me a good advice.</p>
<p>My heart set on attending Pomona college. But my parents strongly oppose. The main reason is bad air quality in Southern California and especially in Inland Empire. They worry about my health.
What should I do?</p>
<p>Thanks.</p>
<p>For one, Pomona College isn't in the Inland Empire, it's in the eastern portion of LA County; the Inland Empire consists of Riverside & San Bernadino counties (sometimes Pomona and Claremont are included, but they should not be). Second, school is in session fall through spring. Summer months is when the air quality is at its worst. </p>
<p>Scroll down here to see a listing of the cities/townships that make up the Inland Empire: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inland_Empire_(California%5B/url%5D)">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inland_Empire_(California)</a></p>
<p>Do you have Asthma? If not, you will be fine. If you have pre-existing issues, it is something to consider. Pomona does get what is called the "inversion layer" when the coastal breezes hold the air against the mountains. On those days, you wouldn't want to run or do any serious outdoor exercise. However, 99.9% of the time, you will be fine.</p>
<p>I don't have any health problem right now, but my parents worry I can get some while at Pomona. I'm also planning to be on college cross country team.
I don't know if anybody at Pomona was seriously affected by air quality though. I think my parents are overprotective (especially my mom). My sister had asthma in the past, may be that's why.</p>
<p>About 30 years ago, the area had a lot of smog. Its been clear for a long time.</p>
<p>Op, your parents are not correct about the air quality in LA. My son just spent a year at USC, and although he is very sensative, he NEVER had any problems with the air being smoggy. Their concerns are no longer valid. Your mom is being way too protective [and I am an overprotective mom too].</p>