<p>Thanks for your input (:
From what I’ve heard, you should always keep your essays interesting. As long as you are still answering the prompt and getting the message across, voice and style are what set you apart from other applicants. If you are able to show why you fit Penn well in a unique way, I think that would be very beneficial for you! But I’d advise you to have some people read it over in case you “spiced it up” in a way that takes away from your message.
The same definitely applies to the personal essay. You should make that essay as “you” as possible. The more character and voice you put in that, the better. It’s their way of gauging whether you would fit in the Penn community well or not. Also, they read a bajillion straightforward essays so if you’re able to do something unique with yours, I’m sure they’d appreciate it hahah.
Good luck!!</p>