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Student Reviews

Scripps College Reviews

Check out reviews left by other students, or leave your own review. You could win a free scholarship!

  • 06/01/2011

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    11 out of 11 people found this review useful. 1 of 17

    Categories Comments
    Great for these types of students

    There are a couple of groups of Scripps students. If you like to work out, party hard, and wear cute clothes, you'll find that crowd here for sure. Also the quieter but still interesting group of students who like things like Doctor Who and staying in to watch movies. There's a strong LGBTQ community here as well. And no matter what kind of woman you are, you definitely have to be a hard working student who likes to engage with course material and is okay with hanging out with girls almost all the time! Really, even though we're surrounded by four co-ed schools, Scripps women hang out a lot with other Scripps women.

    Tips for prospective students

    Before I came to college, I expected it to be the perfect fantasy world wistfully recalled by middle aged nonfiction writers and illustrated in an Asher Roth music video. But college is real life too, there are ups and downs and individual unique people who define your experience. With Scripps as with any college, things are never perfect. Just remember to get involved with 5C activities, be open to new experiences and people, and have fun! Take advantage of everything, you're paying for the five star gym and the advanced College and Career center, so go there!

    Bang for the buck

    I was awarded a merit scholarship (the James E. Scripps Scholarship) which covers half of my tuition plus room and board with a no loan guarantee. I am currently receiving almost $18,000 in grants from the college on top of the ~$24,000 scholarship because my particular need is high. If you're a good high school student, apply early for this opportunity! College is surprisingly affordable for me and my large family because of it! Even if you aren't awarded scholarships, they still do a very good job with financial aid. It's easy to write a letter to David Levy and explain extraneous circumstances that might not show up on paperwork, and after my family did they adjusted our award accordingly.

    Am enjoying being here

    I love the small community where you really get to meet a lot of people (for example, I know almost all of the other women who posted here on Cappex to review Scripps!) within the larger consortium that offers a greater veil of privacy. My classes are challenging, engaging, and fascinating. I don't give Scripps a perfect five stars because I sometimes wish I knew more boys and occasionally feel like I don't come from enough money to participate in the dominant Claremont culture. There are, however, great extracurricular and work opportunities on campus that are ripe for the picking!

    Am learning a lot

    Classes at Scripps (and all of the Claremont Colleges) are definitely a lot of work and require thoughtfulness and dedication. You will spend a considerable amount of time studying, reading, writing papers, and getting to know professors in office hours. The Core program is particularly challenging but in a fabulous mind opening way!

  • 10/13/2010

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    5 out of 5 people found this review useful. 2 of 17

    Categories Comments
    Great for these types of students

    Hard-working Intellectual Cross-Disciplined

    Tips for prospective students

    Relax. The acceptance rate is low, but if you belong here, you'll end up here.

    Bang for the buck

    According to some big hats as well.

    Am enjoying being here

    How could you not?

    Am learning a lot

    Is there such a thing as learning too much?

  • 10/13/2010

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    3 out of 3 people found this review useful. 3 of 17

    Categories Comments
    Tips for prospective students

    Don't stress yourself out about getting in, because if you are applying you are smart enough to get in! Make sure you keep up your academic drive once you are here.

    Bang for the buck

    Financial aid is generously given at Scripps and they are very understanding of every situation and try to accommodate you accordingly.

    Am enjoying being here

    I love being here, even though I am really far away from home. I have made my own home and family of friends who are here to support me.

    Am learning a lot

    It is definitely challenging here, but they offer you help every step of the way if you fall behind such as free tutors, mentors, and helpful professors.

  • 10/26/2010

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    2 out of 2 people found this review useful. 4 of 17

    Categories Comments
    Great for these types of students

    I became more outgoing after I came to Scripps. I was always pretty focused, but I learned how to follow through on my ambitions more when I got here. So, if you are already the outgoing/ambitious type, then I think you are golden and should definitely look into Scripps!

    Tips for prospective students

    Be yourself. The college process is competitive, but know that you are more than your academics and SAT scores. Share as much about who you are as you can. Be a person and not just an applicant.

    Bang for the buck

    I think you make your college experience what you want it to be, regardless of its financial cost. Scripps provides many useful tools to aid you in building this experience. I recommend taking advantage of all its opportunities. Join a club, apply for a research grant, become a peer mentor or tutor--whatever you want, make it happen.

    Am enjoying being here

    There are always activities and events that bring us together as a community, whether its the weekly tradition of Scripps Tea in Seal Court or listening to a live-band performance at the Motley Coffeehouse. The Scripps environment is definitely an open and welcoming one.

    Am learning a lot

    I transferred to Scripps in my second year of college not entirely knowing what I wanted to study. After dabbling in some introductory courses in subjects of interest, I finally found a major that worked for me--Media Studies. The department is an intercollegiate one, which granted me access to the media professors at the other Claremont Colleges. I appreciate that Scripps allows you to pursue your interests on its campus and beyond--it is truly an awesome opportunity.

  • 10/26/2010

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    2 out of 2 people found this review useful. 5 of 17

    Categories Comments
    Great for these types of students

    If you're a serious student, but also like to have fun, Scripps is the place for you. Everyone here seems to know how to balance work and play fairly well.

    Tips for prospective students

    Tour the college. It may sway your mind, and at the very least, it's a VERY pretty place to be.

    Bang for the buck

    Going to Scripps ended up being cheaper than the state university I was accepted to. The classes are also fantastic, so I am very satisfied.

    Am enjoying being here

    The campus is gorgeous, the classes & professors are great, and the students are friendly. I'm not the best people person, and I've made plenty of friends. My group of friends here is actually larger than it was in high school. We may not be as close as I am with my friends from high school, but it's only 2 months into my freshman year.

  • 12/27/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    2 out of 2 people found this review useful. 6 of 17

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    Campus Safety patrols campuses all the time. The most common crime is bicycle theft (lock your bikes), but I've heard of people leaving their laptops unattended in the library and finding them untouched upon returning.

    Greek Life

    There is a joke that says that Scripps is one big sorority, but there is not actually any Greek Life on campus.

    Clubs and Activities

    CLORGs range from Challah for Hunger and Women in Science to the Fine Cheese Club and Babes and Blankets.

    Great for these types of students

    nerdy, open minded, interested in learning

    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    Every Wednesday afternoon, Scripps students and faculty come out for afternoon tea. Another food tradition is Evening Snack (as opposed to midnight snack) on Tuesday nights. Other traditions include birthday (or half-birthday/quarter-birthday/your-friends-felt-like-it) fountainings and sunbathing on the quad whenever it hits about 70, which is often in Southern California.

    Bang for the buck

    It's expensive, but the Financial Aid department is wonderful and merit aid is available.

    What to do for fun

    The Claremont Village is just a 15-minute walk away, and has restaurants, shops, a movie theater, several frozen yogurt places, and a weekly Farmers' Market. There is rarely a lack of activity on campus, though. We have several a capella groups and comedy groups (Without a Box is my favorite) that put on regular shows. Big names (LMFAO, Taylor Swift, and John Legend come to mind) occasionally perform on campus as well. The Motley also often has local musicians playing. There are also a ton of CLORGs (Clubs and Organizations). I recommend joining the Dirigible Plums, the Claremont Colleges Quidditch Team. :)

    Food and Dining

    7 dining halls on 5 campuses. Competition definitely benefits the students. Check out Taco Tuesday at Pitzer, Muddgolian at Harvey Mudd, and sushi night at Scripps.

    Dorm Life

    Scripps routinely makes it on lists of colleges with dorms like palaces, and with good reason. Several of our dorms are historic landmarks, and our newest dorm is even more gorgeous. Over 90% of Scripps students live on campus all 4 years. That said, dorm bonding doesn't happen beyond your first year (if it happens then), so you might have to go out of your way to make friends with your neighbors. Still, Scripps is known as the quiet campus of the 5C's which makes getting some sleep before midterms a definite possibility.

    Academic Rigor

    Scripps is no Harvey Mudd on the rigor scale, but academics are far from easy. This is definitely a college to which one goes for learning, not for partying. I made most of my best friends while bonding over homework assignments and hanging out in office hours. Professors make themselves available for help and encourage group work. As one of my professors pointed out, very few papers are published by a single individual.

    Tips for prospective students

    Don't discount Scripps just because it is a women's college. We do have students who identify as male and Harvey Mudd, CMC, Pitzer, and Pomona are just a short walk away if you still find the need for more testosterone. Definitely plan a visit. Take a tour. Spend a night in a dorm room. Sip on a Mexican Chai from the Motley in Seal Court. Eat an orange, or a kumquat, or a loquat off a tree. Talk to students. Really, come up to any Scrippsie and ask about Scripps. We love to chat with prospies and I promise that we'll be open and honest about our experience.

    In three sentences

    There is definitely a specific type of student who does well at Scripps College. This student is nerdy (and not necessarily in the Big Bang Theory sense), curious, and--most importantly--open to new ideas and new experiences. The required courses, such as those that fall under Core and Breath of Study, ensure that Scripps students are exposed to such ideas and experiences, and the involved and interested faculty are there to lead the way.

  • 06/20/2011

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 7 of 17

    Categories Comments
    Great for these types of students

    A young woman who loves to be nerdy, vibrant, or basically herself, is ideal for Scripps College. She is one who cannot necessarily make up her mind about what she wants to study, but she knows she loves to do a lot (let's face it many Scrippsies are known to be overachievers!) and she knows she wants to make a difference in the world. At Scripps, those wants become tangible realities.

    Tips for prospective students

    I visited the website when I was a prospie, and I was intrigued. But to truly experience Scripps, you must visit the physical campus. The moment I stepped on that campus, I fell in love.

    Bang for the buck

    The Scripps College environment, from the beauty of the landscaping and architecture to the vast diversity of the people you meet, is worth so much more than you'd ever dream.

    Am enjoying being here

    There truly is no place quite like the Claremont Colleges. Yes, Scripps College is a women's college, but it is like no other. Scripps College is one of five undergraduate liberal arts colleges in the Claremont Consortium. Scripps student life blends together with each of the other college campuses: Harvey Mudd, Pitzer, Claremont McKenna, and Pomona. While you are nurtured and empowered at a small women's college, you simultaneously get the experience and resources that come with a large university.

    Am learning a lot

    Scripps College has a three semester Core program in which first years and sophomores learn about the limitations of definitions, debate about human nature and difference, and question the terms of modern society. The core program unites the freshWOmen class through intellectual and philosophical discussions that continue even beyond the classroom walls. Scripps College is also part of the Joint Science Department in which students from Claremont McKenna, Scripps, and Pitzer Colleges attend science lectures and labs, engage in collaborative study, and get the opportunity to research with faculty members. All professors I have had the pleasure to learn from have been friendly, approachable, passionate about their field, and always willing to make themselves available during office hours.

  • 07/07/2011

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.

    1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 8 of 17

    Categories Comments
    Great for these types of students

    This school is great for all female students who want to explore their options for a future career.

    Bang for the buck

    Even though it is expensive, don't worry about the money because most students receive financial aid and scholarships.

    Will enjoy being here

    You will learn because the teachers are passionate about what they teach.

    Will learn a lot

    I think that at Scripps College you will learn about because really care about your education.

  • 01/30/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 9 of 17

    Categories Comments
    Greek Life

    none, but i love that.

    Bang for the buck

    i've had a great experience at scripps.

    What to do for fun

    scripps is what you make of it. there are hundreds of on-campus organizations to get involved in, movie theaters, small shops around the claremont village, parties every weekend at one of the 5 colleges, and all the big southern california attractions within a few hours' drive: disneyland, hollywood,santa monica pier, etc.

    Food and Dining

    when i was in high school i toured a lot of colleges and i can fairly say that scripps' food is by far the best dining hall food i've ever had, followed closely by wellesley and ucla:-)

    Dorm Life

    scripps isn't crackin when it comes to the social aspect of dorm life, but that's something that our hall directors are working on. it's definitely a great place to study and live (it's always quiet) and oh so very beautiful.

    Academic Rigor

    i have friends at ivy leagues whose classes aren't nearly as rigorous as ours are. the classes will challenge you intellectually, but the professors and students create a supportive community that makes the rigor a little more bearable.

    Tips for prospective students

    visit the campus and ask to do an overnight stay, there's no better way to get a feeling of the college. if you book an overnight stay, the admissions office will provide you with free meals, coupons to the motley coffeehouse (our very own student run coffeehouse, where all the cool kids go) and oh so much love.

    In three sentences

    scripps will challenge you to grow academically, personally and politically. i wouldn't be who i am today if it weren't for the people i met and the education i received here.

  • 06/27/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 10 of 17

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    Campus safety is of great importance to the college. There are blue light security stations everywhere one goes as well as campus safety officers constantly patrolling the campus, though it is incredibly rare for a student to feel unsafe on campus.

    Greek Life

    There is not an official Greek Life on campus yet there is always something fun to do throughout the week as well as the weekend, ranging from a trip to the beach, listening to a concert or attending a party at a neighboring college.

    Clubs and Activities

    There are a number of great clubs and activities which are open to students with all interests and hobbies.

    Great for these types of students

    Scripps College is fit for all students because of its understanding and accepting community. As long as one is willing to be open minded then Scripps is the perfect school.

    Bang for the buck

    Though tuition is challenging the support I receive from my professors, tutors, writing support centers and state of the art equipped science laboratories are well worth the financial sacrifices.

    What to do for fun

    When I am not supporting the various athletics, a short walk to the village or sun bathing at the spa-like pool on campus is right on top on my long activities list.

    Food and Dining

    The only thing that makes me late for class is lingering at the dinning hall. The incredible variety makes it difficult for anyone not to linger at the scrumptious daily buffets.

    Dorm Life

    Rooms are spacious and beautiful on the inside and out. The historical Spanish architecture and gardens are breathtaking.

    Academic Rigor

    Though classes are strenuous the camaraderie between students and faculty is thoroughly supportive.

    Tips for prospective students

    Visiting is a must, so one can experience first hand this frequently described paradise.

    In three sentences

    Scripps continues to be an experience I will treasure. After only my first year I feel that I've already been accepted into this diverse and nurturing community. I feel proud and obligated to carry on these traditions I have come to love at this prestigious college.

  • 10/07/2011

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    11 of 17

    Categories Comments
    Great for these types of students

    It’s hard to pin down a Scripps student, because such diverse personalities thrive within these walls. If I had to: A Scripps student is someone who excels at academics, but is interested too in the practical and compassionate application of knowledge (often through community service and activism). Scrippsies are multi-talented individuals who seek to take advantage of the myriad of opportunities available (about 65% study abroad, and many apply for prestigious awards, like Fulbright, many complete internships on and off-campus, some even teach zumba and pilates at the field house!).

    Tips for prospective students

    Be passionate! Find the things you love, and cultivate those interests. It’s your passion that will make you stand out from other high-achieving students and mark you as someone who will benefit from Scripps’ energy. Remember- it’s ok to hold two vastly different passions within yourself. Scripps can appreciate a student that is interested in pre-med and dance, or language and studio art, or athletics and gender studies.

    Bang for the buck

    With the amount of financial aid I received from Scripps (both merit and need-based), the college became more affordable than my state flagship universities. While our aid is notable, Scripps also offers amazing resources through our Career Planning & Resources office, so that students graduate with the confidence, skills and resumes to find jobs with our fabulous liberal arts degrees.

    Am enjoying being here

    Coming back to Scripps after being abroad for a semester and away for the summer, I really felt as if I were coming back home. I love living in the dorms, because I get the sense that I’m living with my best friends. I can walk to the dining hall alone, and 90% of the time I will just happen to find friends with whom to eat. Having the other campuses around for social events on the weekend is great, and I really enjoy the dance parties at Harvey Mudd and Pomona, but I also am glad to have the amazing women’s college environment at Scripps—a space where I can critically analyze institutions of privilege and power over tea… and then talk about the latest episode of Glee.

    Am learning a lot

    There are so many opportunities to learn at Scripps—inside my classes, at the many workshops and speaker events, and through my jobs and internships. There are so many interesting classes here, and as a senior I lament the fact that I’m running out of time to take them! I wound up with two minors purely by accident. I took classes that interested me and, voila, I found myself steps away from two different minors in addition to my self-designed major! The chance to study outside of Scripps, in Copenhagen, Denmark, had me learning 24/7 as I lived with a host-family.

  • 01/25/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    12 of 17

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    they are always on the lookout. their little golf carts are constantly roaming the grounds and keeping us safe. also there are many blue-lit emergency posts all over the place. no matter when or where the emergency, you'll be covered.

    Greek Life

    there isn't a very large sorority/fraternity presence on campus. i'm not even sure if there's one at all.

    Clubs and Activities

    there is a club fair where you can go through all the tables of all the groups in the opening months of school. there is everything from skiing to photography to humans vs. zombies to ballroom dancing to charity groups. there's something for everyone.

    Great for these types of students

    studious respectful thoughtful genuine happy students with many interests students who have interests in travel

    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    in the opening orientation week, each school hosts a party on a separate night so that everyone from every school gets acquainted with their new home. it's wonderful. harvey mudd is the place to be for hangouts, though. they have the craziest courtyards and plenty of fun toys to mess with.

    Bang for the buck

    it certainly gives you all you asked for. a wonderful home, a welcoming part-time family, interesting classes, wonderful teachers, a reasonable work load, a plethora of options, and plenty of convenience and communication within the community. i'm proud to be a scrippsie.

    What to do for fun

    go into the village! there are so many awesome shops to browse around in the village. it's less than a mile walk and well worth it. things close a little early, but plenty to do during the day and many of the shops accept claremont cash, the in-school money system that works off of our school ids.

    Food and Dining

    if you're ever tired of your dining hall, there are four others to choose from! but past that, each campus has school stores and cafes to go to if you need a snack, a hangout spot, or a late-night snack. they've got you covered.

    Dorm Life

    everyone is extremely friendly, pleasant, and courteous. oftentimes i find myself suddenly being invited to tag along with groups of girls i barely know because they see i'm not doing anything. everyone is looking out for each other.

    Academic Rigor

    for the most part work is extremely manageable, so long as you choose classes you enjoy and don't overload yourself. don't worry, you get into the groove of things very easily and teachers are understanding :]

    Tips for prospective students

    ask in-depth about the how the 5 claremont colleges interact with each other and what life is like as part of the 5c's. i would suggest doing an over-night, taking a tour, and sitting in on a class while you are looking at the school. however, if sitting in on a class isn't convenient, then just make sure to encourage your host to take you around to get to know the social life in the dorms. moderate sat scores are okay. you'll do fine. acceptance is all in the essay and how intriguing you are to them. scripps is looking for promising young women, so just emphasize why that describes you.

    In three sentences

    scripps is an incredibly engaging and inspirational place. the people are intriguing and the landscape and architecture is awe-worthy. when i walked onto the campus for the first time, i already felt like i was home.

  • 04/01/2012

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.

    13 of 17

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    Normally, there's nothing to worry about in the safe town of Claremont.

    Greek Life

    nonexistent

    Great for these types of students

    - both liberals and conservatives - those who enjoy peace and quiet - those who can afford the bill - those who aren't super picky - those who enjoy learning - artsy folks

    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    Wednesday tea. ^.^ (fair trade coffee/tea at Motley anytime, any day)

    Bang for the buck

    Too expensive.

    What to do for fun

    Claremont Village-- dining, shopping, etc. A lot of parks around-- natural greenery and such.

    Food and Dining

    Average.

    Dorm Life

    If you're straight, it's convenient not to have guys around to distract you. (Of course, you'll see them in classes and whatnot.)

    Tips for prospective students

    Avoid slacking off during senior year or during the summer. This doesn't necessarily mean reading dull, monotonous books that are incomprehensible to you. Find what you enjoy and dive into that subject area.

    In three sentences

    The beauty of the campus is overrated. The convenience of the 5C's will probably save my life. If you're looking for a small campus with large dorms, and aren't worried about the cost, this is a suitable choice for you.

  • 07/25/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    14 of 17

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    There are very, very few instances of crime at Scripps . They tend to be limited to petty theft or vandalism, and even this is mostly at either Claremont McKenna College or Pomona College. Campus Safety is always surveying the area and there are blue lights all around the 5Cs. If you ever feel unsafe on campus, say at night when walking back from the library, you may use one of the many blue lights to alert Campus Security. They will immediately be notified of your location and will arrive promptly. Theyâ??ll even give you a ride back to your dorm if you want, though people only use this â??serviceâ?? when they are feeling particularly lazy. Also, all the dorms are only accessible via swipe card (your ID card) access and there is always an R.A. on duty in case of an emergency. I personally always feel safe on campus, even when I'm out late at night.

    Greek Life

    There are no fraternities or sororities at Scripps, though there are some (maybe two?) at Pomona College that are very low key. However, there is generally a 5C party every Saturday, the quality ones being at Harvey Mudd College (quantity at Claremont McKenna College). These are a lot of fun!

    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    There is tradition at the 5Cs called â??fountainingâ??. Many people are â??fountainedâ?? or dunked in one of the 5Csâ?? numerous fountains on their birthdays. This tradition is however not widely practiced at Scripps (mostly at Claremont McKenna College and Pomona College and their respective fountains).

    Food and Dining

    The Claremont Colleges share many facilities amongst themselves, dining halls included. There are seven dining halls in total, one at each of the Claremont Colleges (Pomona College however has three dining halls, one of them being the Oldenborg Center, which also serves as a residence hall.). As a Scripps student, you may eat at any of the seven dining halls, save for Oldenborg, which is only open during the weekdays at lunch (for the residents who live there, to practice their language with their peers; this is required of all Oldenborg residents). All of them are very decent, however, Elizabeth Hubert Malott Commons (Scripps' dining hall) is generally recognized as one of the better dining halls. There is always a fresh salad bar and pizza in the oven at meals (save for at breakfast for obvious reasons). Organic, vegetarian, and vegan options are also always available, but McConnell Bistro (Pitzer's dining hall) tends to have better options. Malott is busiest during its weekly sushi nights and steak nights, which are generally considered its best meals. The sushi and steak are both rather mediocre in my opinion, but very decent considering its dining hall food. I have had friends visit from other colleges, and they told me the food at Malott is amazing in comparison to the food served at their dining halls. What Malott lacks is creativity â?? the food is actually quite alright, but the menu is rather repetitive. You can almost predict the menu sometimes â?? burger and fries, quesadillas and grilled chicken, pizza, sweet potatoes and pork roast, something weird in the â??Internationalâ?? section, cookies and frozen yogurtâ?¦ and etcetera. If you are curious what options are available to 5C students, I recommend checking out the Five-College Menu (it is maintained by a current student, though he does not go to Scripps for obvious reasons): http://www.mikemaltese.com/5cmenu/.

    Dorm Life

    The dorms at Scripps are considered to be the nicest out of all the dorms at the Claremont Colleges. Most upperclassmen live in either singles or suites (they range from three-person to four-person to five-person to seven-person), and most if not all students live on campus. Scripps takes great pride in maintaining the architectural integrity of the college and the dorms are well kept by the maintenance staff. All dorms have central heating and the newer dorms have central air conditioning as well. The older dorms are Ellen Browning Hall, Susan Miller Dorsey Hall, Grace Scripps Clark Hall, and Eleanor Joy Toll Hall. They are known for their charm and many students prefer to live in them rather than the newer dorms. The newer dorms are Frankel Hall/Mary Routt Hall, Kimberly Hall/Wilbur Hall, and Gabrielle Jungels-Winkler Hall. Kimberly Hall and Gabrielle Jungels-Winkler Hall are generally considered the least and most desirable dorms, respectfully. Where you live depends on an annual event called Hall Draw, a lottery process that is generally a hot mess every year. That said, most students walk away from it happy with their assignments. Some students choose to live off-campus in nearby apartment complexes or even at the other 5Cs via the Five College Exchange. Additionally, a few sophomore students and upperclassmen live in the Oldenborg Center, the foreign language residence hall at Pomona College. The selection process to live in Oldenborg is competitive and applicants must demonstrate knowledge of Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Russian, or Spanish.

    Academic Rigor

    The workload is what you make of it. You can take the average course load of four class or you can take five or more classes. The difficulty you will have really depends on how hard your classes are (and also if they come with lab), whether you are committed to extracurricular activities (and also how many), and whether you also have work study. Some students choose to challenge themselves and take four difficult classes (chemistry, etc.). Other students take four easy classes (anthropology, etc.), but choose to engage themselves in a number of extracurricular and outside activities, such as intermural sports or an internship in Los Angeles. Either way, Scripps students are typically overinvolved and I have never met anyone who had a truly â??boringâ?? or â??easyâ?? schedule. Nevertheless, I find that most Scripps students can easily find a good balance between work and play. It should be noted that the professors at Scripps and the Claremont Colleges are excellent. They are always willing to help students, but communication is key. If you take the initiative to attend office hours before exams and send emails when absent, you will get a lot out of the small liberal arts college experience. Classes tend to be small (anywhere from five to twenty-five students, though introductory science classes tend to have more, say about fifty students), so expect to get to know your professors and classmates fairly well. Your participation or lack thereof will be noticed!

    Tips for prospective students

    In terms of admissions, Scripps generally does not take in many prospective transfer students. However, prospective first year students with strong academic transcripts and meaningful extracurricular activities are generally seriously considered for admission. I recommend being meticulous when filling out forms and supplements. Also, stellar letters of recommendation from teachers, coaches, and/or peers who know you well should help. The more interest you show in the college, the more likely you will be seriously considered for admission. If you have the option to visit Claremont, do it. If you have the option to schedule an interview, do it. Scripps offers hour-long campus tours five (sometimes six during the fall season when there is an influx of prospective students) days a week, as well as the option to schedule an â??overnightâ?? stay with a student hostess. Additionally, special events such as Preview Week (for prospective students) and Spend a Day in Our Shoes (for admitted students) are also available. Take advantage of these resources that are generally not offered at larger universities! They are a great insight into the academic, dorm, and overall social life at Scripps. A visit, especially an overnight, will help you decide whether Scripps is the right place for you. On the whole, show Scripps that you are truly a perfect fitâ?? â?? a strong young woman who will flourish in a rigorous academic and vibrant social environment.

    In three sentences

    Scripps College is the women's college of the Claremont Colleges, a consortium of five undergraduate colleges and two graduate colleges in southern California. Scripps offers Bachelor of Arts degrees in the liberal arts and sciences, and has a unique Core program in the humanities. The Claremont Colleges share athletic and dining facilities; additionally, cross-enrollment in classes at Pomona College, Claremont McKenna College, Pitzer College, and Harvey Mudd College is common for many Scripps students.

  • 01/11/2013

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    15 of 17

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    Very safe! Campus security is patrolling the grounds at all times and there are a ton of blue light emitting emergency phones everywhere. Scripps is also a very quiet campus, so after all the partying and hullabaloo on other campuses, you can come home to a quiet, clean campus.

    Greek Life

    No greek life whatsoever, but there are highly spirited clubs across all the 5 C's and unofficial frats that host weekly parties. Plus, the schools (Pitzer and CMC) provide money for the parties, especially the alcohol part.

    Clubs and Activities

    A 5C club rush is held during the first or second month of school and there are tons of clubs to join, most being very serious and dedicated to their cause. Clubs help students have something to do and explore their campus and the surroundings. Activities are held all the time, whether it be dorm activities or 5 C parties.

    Great for these types of students

    Scripps is great for those truly interested in a liberal arts education full of philosophy, intense reading, critical thinking, essay writing, etc. It's also great for those who feel comfortable with women and women who are trying to figure out their sexuality. The women here are very supportive.

    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    Matriculation at the beginning of the year for freshman is a welcoming ceremony, a classy affair under a huge tent with classy food. Also signing the official book as an incoming student is a tradition held inside the Denison library. Other traditions are the Eurotrash party as well as 2 other parties that I cannot recall at the moment.

    Bang for the buck

    The class sizes are definitely the bang for the buck, with classes at Scripps being at most 15-20 students on average. Also the food and course offerings. With these small class sizes though, most are forced to take courses off campus on the other 5 C's campuses, so be prepared to interact with other students from other colleges. Also, sometimes I feel like my tuition is going towards most of the parties, but it's Scripps, so I don't think that's a huge issue.

    What to do for fun

    Claremont isn't much of a happening town. The village is a student favorite for its cute shops, mostly catered to the elderly of the town. Prices aren't student-tailored either, so be prepared to join the zip car program or bring your own car or rely on public transport to go to the nearest Target or shopping mall. For fun, there are parties held literally every week except finals on every campus starting Wednesday nights. The usual parties are PUB (Wednesday nights at Pomona's DOM lounge , an underground room with some DJ spinning some tunes and a keg of beer and Thursdays, CMC's TNC (thursday night club) sometimes open to all 5 c's)

    Food and Dining

    Mallott Commons, Scripps' dining hall, is ok. You tend to get sick of it after a while. It's mostly catered to vegans/vegetarians/allergy people. If you're looking for meat, this isn't the place. The much hyped about cookies also begin to lose their charm. Overall, it's much better than other colleges' food.

    Dorm Life

    The dorms at Scripps have their unique, authentic style with blooming courtyards and old interior fixtures. The common rooms as well as browsing rooms are a sight to see. Some dorms are huge while others are forced doubles, but no worries! Air conditioning only exists in two/three dorms and heating is available in all I believe, but some do not work while others like mine create a sauna like feel. RA's are ok for just general help, but when it goes to personal issues, I suggest students take it straight to the hall director, because RA's are students as well and do not have time to deal with personal issues (from my experience). Also, automatic roommate pairing first semester of freshman year is pretty off, they pair you with your opposite (only bad part) and trying to switch rooms/roommates is ind of a hassle with the whole chain of command you have to go through, especially the Assosciate Dean of Students, who isn't much of a fan favorite.

    Academic Rigor

    Courses here are difficult, I am not going to lie. Competition does exist between peers, but it is friendly competition. The CORE classes are basically the liberal arts driven courses and require a lot of philosophical thinking, critical thinking, and a lot of essay writing as well as reading. If you are a science major like me, then the Keck Science building will be your new home. Overall, the consortium style education give you a chance to try courses at the other 5 C's and even the option to create your own major.

    Tips for prospective students

    Make sure to highlight your contributions to your community as well as all of the extra-curricular activities you have participated in. Scripps admission loves to see uniqueness and not just the commonly done things. Also emphasize your passion for liberal arts and why you have chosen to attend a hidden gem like Scripps and especially, why a women's college.

    In three sentences

    Scripps is a challenging institution that offers a variety of options through the Claremont Colleges consortium. The campus, dorms, and people are beautiful. Scripps provides the true liberal arts education experience with skilled faculty and many opportunities.

  • 02/25/2013

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    16 of 17

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    Campus safety is always roaming around in the golf carts looking out for students. I have always felt safe here at Scripps.

    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    There are many historically significant places on campus. There is a rose garden that blooms beautiful flowers in the spring that students can cut off and place in their rooms.

    Bang for the buck

    Great resources and opportunities at the 5C's.

    What to do for fun

    There is something for everyone to do for fun. On weekends there are a lot of 5C parties and events. If parties aren't your thing, there are many other 5C events that are plenty of fun. Trips into Claremont Village are also popular and really great!

    Food and Dining

    Food is great! You have over 5 dining halls to choose from so you never really get bored. Scripps food is one of the best, so you're in good hands!

    Dorm Life

    The dorms are amazing and beautiful, but recently, they've been running out of dorm space and have been placing underclassmen into forced doubles and triples (rooms that were originally singles and doubles).

    Academic Rigor

    The classes at Scripps are very challenging and it seems that there are no easy A's. That being said, the classes are very rewarding and you learn a lot.

    Tips for prospective students

    Be ready for a challenge. Come with an open mind and work hard! Also, make sure you know how to balance school work and fun at the 5C's.

    In three sentences

    Scripps is one of five colleges in a consortium. It has the resources of five schools, which is amazing. It is a challenging school but is padded by a supportive community.

  • 03/20/2013

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    0 out of 1 people found this review useful. 1 person found this inaccurate. 17 of 17

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    The illusion of the small town of Claremont makes you feel safe, but there are problems on campus like everywhere. You need to be careful whereever you attend school. You can't fall under the illusion that you are safe anywhere.

    Greek Life

    They don't have it.

    Clubs and Activities

    No one has time.

    Great for these types of students

    Studious and hardworking.

    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    No sports. They have dress up dinners and weekly teas.

    Bang for the buck

    It is expensive and there is very little financial help available. They claim they will help you, but it has been impossible to find a job. Students that are on work study seem to be able to find some assistance, but the financial aid office is useless. I was shocked at how little the man that runs the financial aid department cares. Once he learned I was not a financial aid student and one that had to find a way to pay the tuition myself he had no suggestions. I will have enormous debt when I leave Scripps. All scholarships available on campus are need based. There isn't one scholarship that is available to a students that are not on financial assistance. This has been a HUGE disappointment to my family. We were sure that we would qualify for some financial assistance, we have received ZERO help from the college. Be extremely careful. $57,000 a year is a lot of money.

    What to do for fun

    I tutor children who are under served in the community. I also do unpaid research on campus. Hanging out with friends and going into town is about all you have time for.

    Food and Dining

    Over the top GREAT!!! I don't think you will find better. There are options for anyone with special needs.

    Dorm Life

    The dorms and the options are varied. It has worked out well. The maintence is lacking, but I think that is true everywhere. The cleaning staff leaves a lot to be desired....showers and bathrooms need assistance. Air conditioning and mold seem to be a problem in the older buildings....check this out carefully. The college also leads you to believe you will be housed at Scripps. They over commit to the number of students that apply because the drop out rate is HIGH. Ask a lot of questions. Changing room mates is complicated and a ridiculous process.

    Academic Rigor

    Advanced and appropriate.

    Tips for prospective students

    Be careful. You have to really be sure that the school you apply to within the 5 CMC schools has the classes you are interested in. Don't buy into the line that they give you that taking classes at the five CMC colleges is easy and a great value. It is impossible to get classes at CMC if you attend another school within the group of colleges. It is an illusion. You have to really be aggressive and it is virtually impossible if you are not a Claremont McKenna Student to take classes there. Disappointing for $57,000 a year. The summer does provide opportunities that aren't there in the typical school year.

    In three sentences

    The food is great! The opportunity to do undergraduate research is amazing. The professors and students are top notch. I have met lots of students from the different schools and they are people who want to help change the world for the better.