Style of Common App Essay

<p>Hi, I've got a couple of nervous-rising-senior-filling-out-applications questions. Any help would be greatly appreciated.</p>

<p>Firstly, I was wondering if the essay was supposed to be more of a narrative or scholarly in nature. I am choosing to write about "an encounter that demonstrated the importance of diversity" to me, so I see the usefulness of both kinds of essays. However, I am unsure if the personal appeal of a narrative is more effective than the professional appeal of a more scholarly essay.</p>

<p>Secondly, is it imperative to discuss a single event, or would it be possible to discuss things I noticed across an entire year? I ask this because, in my paranoia, I'm overthinking the word "encounter..."</p>

<p>Thanks again for any advice!</p>

<p>I’m also really curious about this. While I’m passionate about many things, I’m heavily leaning towards writing about a childhood experience that impacted me. Whether or not that’s a good choice is still confusing–do I go for the more serious, “this is what I’m passionate about” or a more reflective childhood event?</p>