Answer 1

They are a requirement - the supplemental is in addition to generally, the common app. essay - if it is  not submitted, your application will not be viewed as complete - sorry, but they need to be done -

Good Luck!

Answer 2

The supplemental essay (s) are required and must be completed on time. While the college uses the Common Application form they have decided that additional writing samples are needed. Do not discount the importance of these requests. Treat the additional essay with great care and thought. Have a successful year and best wishes!

Answer 3

These are important! College admissions professionals have a limited amount of time to complete their review of a student's application. If they have decided to include a required supplemental question or questions, you can rest assured that they are asking because they want your answers to them. Put differently, no one asks a question they don't want the answer to. Though I would never encourage a student to stress excessively over their answers, supplements should be treated as important enough to warrant your serious attention. Someone on the other end of your application wants to read your answer and use it in their evaluation of your potential fit with their school.