<p>Any thoughts on the different characteristics of these schools? I've heard that the Claremont schools are generous with financial aid. Does anyone know about Whitman?</p>
<p>They're probably around the same. The main difference is environment. Pomona-CMC is suburban, with relatively small campuses, but has significant advantages from being part of the Claremont Consortium. Whitman is in a small town/rural setting, and is more spread out. Very, very beautiful (the others can't compare), but you need to decide whether you will thrive in Walla Walla. Academically, truly 6 of one or half dozen of the other. (Put Whitman in So.Cal and its selectivity, etc. soars to about where Pomona is.)</p>
<p>In terms of financial aid, I'd say Whitman is probably the best of the three - I've heard some grumbling about financial aid offers at Pomona not comparing to other similar schools. Otherwise, I agree with Mini - I'd give a slight edge to Pomona in terms of academics and because it has more of a national rep, but CMC and Whitman are both excellent.</p>
<p>Actually Pomona will meet other offers if they want a student, and both Pomona and CMC are excellent with aid-it will continue at the same level all 4 years. CMC makes the list every year as one of the best schools for finaid. My S just called from Pomona. They filled the whole quad with snow-it is final studying week and the students played in the snow and had snowball fights , made snowmen and then studied outside on blankets in the 70 degree sun. My S goes to the beach on weekends. The academics are amazing, and the students very impressive. You could not go wrong there. Actually the same could be said for all 3. Whitmn is very isolated with great outdoor adventure activities so if that fits your profile it would be a fit.</p>
<p>Thanks to all. Really appreciate the insight.</p>