<p>What is it that they like to see in a student's uncommon essay besides good writing, creativity, "quirky-ness" and whatnot? Can't these qualities already be discerned from the Common App essay? Also, would they accept poetry?</p>
<p>My opinion, the uncommon essay is the quintessential UChicago differentiator. No doubt it is meant to be a challenge and weights very heavily in the admissions process, probably more so than at peer schools. </p>
<p>A good uncommon essay allows the school to assess whether the student enjoyed writing the essay, would enjoy being a student there and would thrive and contribute to the intellectual climate. They want to know how you think. I think originality and creativity are key. It’s not supposed to be easy. They read a lot of these. Some stand out. UChicago is not for everybody. </p>
<p>Thank you for your response @classicrockerdad! That was what I was thinking too.</p>