<p>Just wanted to add in viewing some of the posts above-
Pomona is definitely not a SoCal dominated student body. About 1/3 are from California and from all over the state. A large number of students are from the N/E and N/W. there is also a great number of foreign students. </p>
<p>Both are excellent schools academically, I don't think you could pick one over the other in that regard, unless it pertains to some specific major. </p>
<p>Sports are important at both schools IMO, but I think Pomona has the edge, given the weather alone. Don't think you'll be sitting poolside in October or November in Williams, as you might well at Pomona. I also think in varsity sports Pomona plays in a much "tougher" conference. The intramural programs at both schools are well represented IMO. I also think the facilities at pomona are extradionary and rival many D-1 sports programs, plus you have a duplication of facilities given the other 4 schools adjacant to Pomona (more about that below)</p>
<p>Location is a huge factor. The weather in Claremont can't be beat during the school year, but you may prefer the "seasons" that Williams will provide. At Pomona, You're also about 45 minutes in one direction from the mountains (skiing, hiking, etc.) and 45 minutes the otherway to the beach. In about the same time you can be in Los Angeles, Disneyland, Hollywood, Malibu etc. etc. See a major concert, the Lakers, Angels, Dodgers or SC or UCLA football. In a little over an hour, you can hit San Diego. However, you may well like and prefer the isolation that Williams provides (just don't try to use your cell phone, you rarely get reception).</p>
<p>One critical difference, all else aside, is that Pomona and Williams are relatively similar in size, but immediately adjacant to Pomona and, in essence, forming one (5000 student) campus you have the 4 other schools that form the Claremont consortium. You can take classes at all 5 schools, eat in the 11 dining halls of the 5 schools, attend events/parties put on by 5 schools. The schools form two separate sports programs and so you have this myriad of activity, facilities and the diversity and other opportunites of access to 5 schools if you choose. This is simply not present at Williams.</p>
<p>To bottomline generalize and "stereotype", IMO you'll get a little more laid back California experience at Pomona and a more typically east coast traditional feel at Williams.</p>