Williams College vs Pomona College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the key differences in location and campus environment between Williams College and Pomona College?

  Williams College is located in the rural town of Williamstown, Massachusetts, offering a classic New England college town experience. The campus is surrounded by mountains and forests, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Pomona College, on the other hand, is situated in Claremont, California, a suburban community near Los Angeles. Claremont offers a more urban feel with access to a wider range of cultural and entertainment options. The climate is also a significant difference, with Williams experiencing cold winters and Pomona enjoying a Mediterranean climate.

• How do the academic strengths of Williams College and Pomona College compare?

  Both Williams and Pomona are highly regarded liberal arts colleges with strong academic programs across the board. Williams is particularly known for its tutorials, small classes where two students work closely with a professor. Pomona is known for its strong humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences programs, and its connection to the Claremont Colleges consortium allows students to take courses at any of the five undergraduate colleges and two graduate institutions.

• What is the student body size and overall campus culture like at each college?

  Williams College has a student body of approximately 2,000 undergraduates, fostering a close-knit community. The campus culture is often described as academically rigorous yet supportive, with a strong emphasis on collaboration. Pomona College has a slightly smaller student body of around 1,700 undergraduates. Its location in Southern California contributes to a more diverse and laid-back atmosphere, while still maintaining a high level of academic engagement.

• How do the costs of attending Williams College and Pomona College compare, and what financial aid opportunities are available?

  The cost of attendance at both Williams and Pomona is comparable, including tuition, fees, room, and board. Both institutions are committed to meeting the full demonstrated financial need of all admitted students. They offer generous financial aid packages, including grants and scholarships, to make education accessible to students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. It's best to use their respective Net Price Calculators on their websites to get a personalized estimate.

• What are the advantages of the Claremont Colleges consortium for Pomona students?

  Pomona College's membership in the Claremont Colleges consortium is a significant advantage. Students can cross-register for courses at any of the other four undergraduate colleges (Scripps, Claremont McKenna, Harvey Mudd, and Pitzer) and two graduate institutions, expanding their academic options and social circles. This provides access to a wider range of courses, faculty expertise, and campus resources than would be available at a single institution. It's like having access to five colleges in one!

• What are the most popular majors at Williams College and Pomona College?

  At Williams College, popular majors include Economics, Political Science, Biology, English, and Mathematics. At Pomona College, popular majors include Economics, Politics, Biology, Computer Science, and Psychology. However, both colleges encourage students to explore a wide range of disciplines and often double major or pursue interdisciplinary studies.

• What are the career services and internship opportunities like at Williams College and Pomona College?

  Both Williams and Pomona offer comprehensive career services to help students explore career paths, find internships, and prepare for job searches. Williams has a strong alumni network that provides valuable connections and mentorship opportunities. Pomona's location in Southern California provides access to a wide range of internship opportunities in various industries, including entertainment, technology, and finance. Both colleges actively support students in securing internships and post-graduate employment.

• How do the athletic programs and recreational activities differ between Williams College and Pomona College?

  Williams College is known for its strong Division III athletic program, with a wide range of varsity sports and a high level of participation among students. The college also offers numerous intramural sports and recreational activities. Pomona College competes as part of the Claremont-Mudd-Scripps (CMS) Athenas and Stags, also in Division III. CMS offers a similar range of varsity and recreational sports, with the added benefit of combining resources from multiple colleges. The California climate also allows for year-round outdoor activities.

• What are the housing options like at Williams College and Pomona College?

  Both Williams and Pomona offer guaranteed housing for all four years. Williams has a variety of residence halls, ranging from traditional dorms to small houses. Pomona's housing options include traditional dorms, suites, and themed housing communities. Both colleges emphasize creating supportive and inclusive residential environments.

• If I'm interested in a specific academic area, how can I determine which college is a better fit for me?

  Research the faculty in your area of interest at both Williams and Pomona. Look at their publications, research interests, and teaching styles. Consider reaching out to professors directly to learn more about their work and the opportunities available to students. Also, explore the course catalogs and academic departments of both colleges to see which one offers a curriculum that aligns with your academic goals. Visiting both campuses, if possible, and attending departmental information sessions can also be very helpful.