<p>So my common app personal statement relates to Stanford's supplemental question "What matters to you and why?" Would it look bad if I used the common app essay to answer this question?</p>
<p>Yes it would look bad if you used the same essay, especially for Stanford. I had a similar problem, just try and look at it from a different angle or take the most relevant piece from your personal statement and expand on it in the supplement.</p>
<p>Hmmm. Depends. If it is a top notch essay and you can recycle some of the writing, sure, use it. But keep in mind that most of the Stanford applicants will spend 20 to 40 hours writing and rewriting their essays. Does your application really stand out? Let’s face it, if your parents donate say $30 million to Stanford, then you can practically turn in your common app essay and still expect an easy acceptance. Or if your father is Clinton, yes, you really don’t have to worry too much. But if you are like the rest of us common folks, you should spend some time on your “personalized” essay for Stanford.</p>
<p>If Stamford will be receiving both essays then you should definitely have two separate essays. However, if they will only be receiving one essay then I think you can be more lenient on what you send.</p>