<p>Can I write this part in a conversational tone? This almost feels like a 'serious component', like the part explaining school grading system... But it doesn't feel like an 'essay' either (400 words!?)</p>
<p>What would you do?</p>
<p>I wrote it with self-revealing tone. It’s a part of the application, so you may write in the way that you want MIT to see; the main purpose is still to depict yourself in the eyes of the adcom. And of course, it’s not another essay, so don’t worry.</p>
<p>I think that all personal essays should be written in a conversational tone. You aren’t drafting a new FERPA regulation - you’re telling other humans about yourself.</p>
<p>I never went to high school and I didn’t use a significantly different tone than in any other essay. You really should get some kind of consistency between your small essays because they contribute to a bigger picture. Consistency is more appealing than chaos. It’s also much easier to follow.</p>
<p>Use whatever kind of voice you’re comfortable with - I don’t think any of the essays have to be formal.</p>
<p>Okay, thanks!</p>