<p>We have received a number of inquiries from freshman applicants about our short statement question concerning the painting The Ambassadors.</p>
<p>We feel some clarification from our Director of Admission may be helpful: “We are not asking for an artistic interpretation or seeking a hidden message in this work, whatever that might be. We want to know more about you, as a student and as a young person with much to offer Northwestern. The question is meant simply to spark your thinking about an item or object you find to be important, meaningful, and/or symbolic to you, and why. Your answer can, and probably will, be as individual as you are - but knowledge of Renaissance painting and philosophy are definitely NOT required! I hope this helps to clarify our intention and alleviate any confusion the question may have unintentionally inspired. We look forward to reading your response.”</p>
<p>Just remember, once you have submitted your application to Northwestern we will be unable to accept revised answers to our questions, so please review your information before you submit your application.</p>