Optional Essays?? (Confusing question)

Colleges and Universities A-Z University of Pittsburgh
1

So Pitt says they rather have things your letters of rec would say about you in your own optional essays. Should I write the essays like Common App style with a central idea that is not cliche and is developed to show how I grew but not out-right saying “I not have changed and become a better person.” (I don’t know if that makes any sense on how I’m explaining it) As opposed to just writing about some of the leadership roles I have and just blatantly stating them (second prompt).

Sorry if this is kind of confusing…

Also, from what I can tell these essays are mainly used for scholarships?

2

I would suggest that you use the essays to help admissions understand more about you as an individual. For example, rather than listing leadership roles, etc. pick the most meaningful one and write about it. Write in a way that will help them distinguish you from everyone else.

The essays are reviewed for admissions and scholarship consideration. Some applicants here on CC were accepted before they had submitted the short answers. I’m assuming that their stats were strong enough for admission without the short answers. Good luck!