Purchase College’s motto is “Think Wide Open.” It’s our way of learning, teaching and being and so much more. By choosing Purchase, students make a conscious decision to join an intense community with a deep respect for individuality and diversity and an unparalleled environment of creativity and innovation.

As an applicant, we want to know what Think Wide Open means to you and how this concept relates both to succeeding in an academically competitive environment as well as contributing positively to a diverse community of learners both in and outside the classroom. All students submit either an essay or other creative work, which should be original and connect to Think Wide Open broadly or specifically.

Videos, visual art work and previously graded work should include a brief introduction or statement that helps contextualize your submission for the viewer/reader. Videos should not be more than 2–3 minutes long.