The personal essay is especially important.  It serves as an indicator of your writing skills and provides an opportunity to give admission officers insights into your personal characteristics, beliefs, goals, etc.  Be sure to include your name and any other identifying information on your essay if it is being uploaded separately for a non-Common App school.

Johns Hopkins is offering Virtual Essay Writing Workshops for students who are looking for assistance with essay writing.

Some students wish to mention an adversity that they have faced and overcome, such as an illness or personal/family hardship.  Our recommendation is to discuss this first with your counselor before doing so.

Additional Resources for essay writing: 

The College Essay Guy

Even More Essays that Worked from Hamilton College

Essay Writing Tips from the University of Michigan

The College Essay:  How, Why, Who and What from Duke University

Essay Tips from Carleton College

Essays that Worked from Connecticut College

Top Ten Tips for Writing a College Essay from NACAC

Essays that Worked from Johns Hopkins University

Tips for a Good College Essay from Hamilton College

College Essay Writing Tips that Get You Noticed from SUNY

How to Write a College Application Essay from Big Future (College Board)

Tips for Writing a Standout Essay from University of Cincinnati