<p>My son has a great essay about one of his extra curricular activities - the teachers who have proofed it all thought it was wonderful. However, he has another essay - for a school that does not take the common app - the is very creative and would make him very memorable. He was thinking of using this creative essay for some common app schools under the "write about what you want" category. Do some schools appreciate the creativity and humor over the really powerful interest essay? I am worried that some won't and it is better to play it safe. Any thoughts?</p>
<p>I'm not an adcom, but I can imagine that after a kajillion heartfelt essays no matter how good, quirky and funny would be a welcome relief. Assuming he really pulls it off. They probably read a lot of bad quirky and funny too.</p>
<p>From what I have been told, the essay should reflect something about the student that cannot be gleaned from the rest of the application....If the extracurricular essay just expands on what is on the app, you may want to go with the creative one; remember it's supposed to be a "personal statement"....Also, which one really expresses your child's "voice"....When you (or others) read it, does it make you (them) smile because it is so "him".....If you would like, PM me; I will read it....</p>