@SeattleTW - I live in SoCal, it’s been a long time since it was like that—I barely remember it. I was only recently reminded when I saw an old photo of the smog and thought “OMG! We used to live in that!?”
Also, “far from the beach” is relative. I would agree, but then I live only 10 minutes away. Claremont is about an hour–for some people that is incredibly close!
OP - I’m a big fan of the Claremont schools (I have 2 kids there) and I echo all the positive things said about the schools and the consortium, but it sounds like you don’t really need to be sold on that. It sounds like your concern is being so far away from home. Hopefully, other students (and I know there there plenty out there!) that have gone away far from home can give you advice on that. Also, if you haven’t already, I would recommend a visit to Claremont. That might help you decide.
(P.S. I also echo the others on the word “Cali” — I don’t think I’ve ever heard anyone refer to California as “Cali”)