Claremont McKenna College

Date: Feb 20 2003
Major: Accounting (This Major's Salary over time)
The Students:

Claremont McKenna is not the right college for everyone. It is a small liberal arts college that focuses on the real world. The students tend to be very focused on being successful both during and after college (hence

leaders in the making

); those who are idealistic may be uncomfortable with their classmates' focus on practicality. Despite the emphasis on success, there is very little competition between students. Instead, you'll find students studying together for exams, and helping each other prepare for the same job interview.

Social Life:

As a group, CMC'ers live by the adage

work hard, play hard,

and recognize that leadership and interpersonal skills are important in social settings, as well as in the classroom and structured activities. The social life on campus is extremely active, especially on Thursdays and Saturdays, and among underclassmen and athletes. Although the city of Claremont is sleepy and picturesque, it has several good restaurants. Student who are looking for a change of pace take advantage of the proximity to LA, the beaches, and the mountains.

The Faculty:

First, and most importantly, there are no teaching assistants or huge classes. (I didn't realize how important this was to the quality of education until I arrived at the College.) Although all of the professors are noted in their career many of them have had careers outside of academia, which allows them to bring a unique perspective to the classroom. Also, the professors are extremely accessible, and are always willing to write recommendations, give advice on restaurants, re-explain a lesson, and even help students find jobs!

Other:

We have housekeeping that dusts and vacuums our rooms once a week. The housekeepers are so friendly - mine even keeps track of when my exams are, and asks how I did on them! In fact, the staff in most of the departments on campus is extremely friendly, especially in Collins (the dining hall), Dean of Students Office, and Career Services.

We get great food! Weekdays there is (free) tea at the ath, complete with chocolate covered strawberries and huge rice krispie treats. Sunday-Thursday the dining hall is open from 10:30-11:30pm for a (free) late night snack. Collins is an excellent dining hall, with a rotating pasta bar and stir-fry where they make the food right in front of you. When you want a change, you can eat at one of the other dining halls in the consortium.

My experience at Claremont has been incredible, and I believe coming to the College was the best decision that I have ever made. Even before classes started, I was referring to CMC as home (much to my mother’s dismay!). I would encourage any interested students to visit the campus, talk to the students and professors, and see if it is a place where they also could feel at home.