<p>Reading of ever-increasing number of college applications all over the country...son had an interview with a Pitzer admissions rep today in Portland OR, we asked what Pitzer's numbers were looking like. Two years ago, Pitzer had 2414 applications; admitted 1194 (49%); with a first year class of 236. I didn't take notes, but last year's numbers were something like 3000 applications for those same 1200 admits (40%) and class of 220...she estimated this year's numbers up even more: they were overwhelmed by the number of early applications, and she said probably close to 4000 total applications for 1200 admits (30%) and class of 220. So getting more & more selective each year. </p>
<p>We also asked what was going on with Pitzer's USNWR ranking going from #70 2 years ago to #59 last year; son didn't get it all, but something about new folks at the top working hard to improve the college in ways that reflect in USNWR's statistical analysis...endowment, class size, etc. as well as the overall "halo" effect of being part of the Claremont Consortium...academic improvements, etc.</p>