<p>What is the difference between essays for UCs and those for private schools on the common app?</p>
<p>I have been told many times that private school essays should reveal your personality and yourself rather than harp on your extracurriculars or accomplishments. </p>
<p>However, on a UCLA handout, it says "the most compelling personal statements often include discussions of your academic record, accomplishments, and activities......Your initiative, motivation, leadership, ...substantial experience with other cultures...Your achivements in light of the opportunities available to you"</p>
<p>In other words, UCs sound like they are looking for the cliches private schools tell you to avoid. Are the UCs really looking for resume-esque essays?</p>