<p>I'm applying to Pomona, but I live too far away to visit and am having difficulty gauging the culture of the school. I'm looking for somewhere that is socially more quirky/nonconformist (more like Pitzer) rather than preppy/jocky. Could any of you give me an idea, from your perspective, of where Pomona students fall on this spectrum? Thanks!</p>
<p>You might do better asking this in the Pomona College forum. Although the Consortium shares a lot (and by nature compares), its best to get an idea of the College from the students, parents, and alums that know it best. </p>
<p>From just my personal experience, Ill say that I wouldnt consider Pomona to have a jock/preppy stereotype. I would say that, like the diverse liberal arts college that Pomona is, the main thing that defines the College is competitive and driven (specifically in academics) students.</p>
<p>Thanks for the reply, Erdnase808! I’ve asked a similar question in the Pomona forum, but I find that people aren’t always able to accurately self-assess.</p>
<p>I understand!</p>
<p>In terms of your original question about looking for a more quirky college. One of the things I always used to look towards was the institutional mission statements–they really drive the administrative and planning decisions at the college, very much come from the culture. Let’s take a look:</p>
<p>Pomona College Mission Statement:</p>
<p>“Throughout its history, Pomona College has educated men and women of exceptional promise. We gather students, regardless of financial circumstances, into a small residential community that is strongly rooted in Southern California yet global in its orientation. Through close ties among a diverse group of faculty, staff and classmates, Pomona students are inspired to engage in the probing inquiry and creative learning that enable them to identify and address their intellectual passions. This experience will continue to guide their contributions as the next generation of leaders, scholars, artists and citizens to fulfill the vision of its founders: to bear their added riches in trust for all.”</p>
<p>Pitzer College Mission Statement: </p>
<p>“Pitzer College produces engaged, socially responsible citizens of the world through an academically rigorous, interdisciplinary liberal arts education emphasizing social justice, intercultural understanding and environmental sensitivity. The meaningful participation of students, faculty and staff in college governance and academic program design is a Pitzer core value. Our community thrives within the mutually supportive framework of The Claremont Colleges, which provide an unsurpassed breadth of academic, athletic and social opportunities.”</p>
<p>I think that if you’re looking for a more socially quirky school, Pitzer is the place!</p>
<p>I just looked up the mission statements for my other schools; you seem to be very much correct about that. Unfortunately, it’s too late for me to apply to Pitzer, but should I end up at Pomona I’ll enjoy having you guys around!</p>
<p>its not too late to apply to pitzer</p>