<p>For the short answer question, am I supposed to DESCRIBE the activity in detail, or to show what I have learned from that activity? Thanks.</p>
<p>If you’re short on space, stick to describing the activity (save the learning to the longer essays). However, it’s not like it’s impossible to do both.</p>
<p>Example: “As captain of the math team I’ve organized meetings, hosted school-wide competitions and tutored students. As a result my leadership abilities have improved ten fold and I am no longer shy. I used to be too afraid to even talk in front of my class, but now I can get up and teach a math problem to a dozen students without even thinking twice.”</p>
<p>Do you think it would be a good idea to talk about starting my own business?</p>
<p>^Yes, although that might be something better served for the common app personal essay (depending on how significant this is). Like if you’ve racked in the dough and are very reputable, I’d recommend discussing that for your personal essay.</p>
<p>Maybe you’re right. But I am thinking of writing about a student government speech for the personal essay. If I just mention what I have done and how I apply my international experience (I’m from Hong Kong and selling stuff back to HK), would it be good enough for the short answer?</p>