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FerreroRocher

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NYC12345

Avoid them at all costs. Your personal statement should be erudite and professional.

Nicole Hopkins

Both my published work (in the Wall Street Journal and other national publications) and my law school essays all contain plentiful contractions.

Write like a human being. It's much more interesting that way. Sometimes human beings use contractions. Sometimes we do not, for emphasis or meaningful formality, etc.

Pacifico

There are only two real rules: answer the prompt and don't be boring. If contractions work then go for it. This isn't an academic paper or one that would otherwise require such formality.

FerreroRocher

Thanks guys!