<p>"In addition to any work experience that you listed on your application, please tell us how you spent your most recent summer vacation." - taken from the common app.</p>
<p>Yes, it is, and it’s not an essay since it’s not listed under the personal statement section or the essay section. I think they’re just looking to see how you spend your time off from school to better youself or community.</p>
<p>It’s not required (not in bold) but you should fill it in.</p>
<p>Hmm, really? I didn’t see that thing about it only being required if it’s in bold. Well now I know.</p>