Common App Short Answer

<p>What are colleges looking for in this part of the app? I've heard and read that the personal essay should show the college your personality and other traits, help them get to know the person who filled out the app.
Do they want the same thing in the short answer section? Or do they want to know more about some activity that can't be completely understood without a "150 or fewer word" explanation? For example, would writing about my eagle project be a good idea?</p>