<p>I am a senior in high school and I REALLY want to go to Pomona.
I dont know why, but since the first time I read about Pomona, I am in love with the school.</p>
<p>Anyways,
I love the fact that the classes are small, but I read that 'If you are a person who sits in the back and takes notes, you shouldnt come to Pomona'</p>
<p>I am not the kind of person who feels comfortable talking in front of a huge crowd. I like small...maybe 6 people discussions but not big group discussions.
Would I not be able to survive in Pomona? I am hoping that I would get over my fear...but I'm scared that I won't.</p>
<p>Also, because my english is my second language, I am not so great with english and history. As much as I enjoy reading literature and learning about history, I'm just not good at it. I still get A's...but I struggle...Is this going to be a huge problem?</p>
<p>I think your question depends on what you are majoring in and what classes you will/want to take. I am more of a science/social science person, and many of the lecture-style classes do not include participation into the final grade, unless it is borderline. However, for most of the social science/science classes I've taken, there is some sort of oral presentation that forces you to speak up in front of the class, whether it's a two-minute presentation with other group members or a 25-minute presentation all alone on a topic of your choice. I would assume English and history classes have more self-initiated participation during discussions and this can be a portion of your final grade. Any substantial presentation or discussion class will probably have about 19 other people listening, maximum.</p>
<p>That said, I came to Pomona being a person who was definitely not comfortable talking in front of any large group of people. Since I've somewhat been forced to do that here, I have become much more comfortable with it with practice, and am glad that the school has pushed me in this way. I wouldn't let this one factor be a reason to not apply to Pomona, especially if you are so interested in the school. Most small schools will probably be the same way. I feel like at Pomona you could even talk to your professors about your concern. They could probably work something out or help you out in some way.</p>
<p>Mellamo- if I may suggest, DON"T let your concern stand in your way. Just to add to the post above, most classes at pomona are relatively small. It is also a VERY supportive atmosphere. To whatever extent you have this concern and fear, you should be able to address it, especially in the atmosphere this school provides.</p>
<p>also, keep in mind that you are NOT alone and most people have the same concern you have. Statistics show that speaking in front of an audience is the #1 fear people have. Dying is the #2 fear. So I guess people would rather die than speak in front of an audience-LOL. It really is silly. Rest assured that no one in your audience will ever be as critical of you as you can be of yourself. </p>
<p>Again, if I may say, don't let this concern stand in your way.</p>