I think you need to shorten your essay. I've never "manually" double-spaced, but it sounds as though the result is that there is less space between the lines. They'll notice.
... with major life events for essay topics can actually be counterintuitive ... turn it into a reflective essay. INSTEAD, come up with something ... can make for an interesting essay if they're used to ...
The only reason I'd say change is isn't b/c it's too complicated, but it sounds very "academic." Like someone writing an essay. The PS should be personal. But if your personal voice is like that, or if it goes with your PS, then keep it!
"When we say optional, we really do mean optional. The Committee will in NO way hold it against you if you choose not to answer any of these questions. (Maximum 250 words.)"
I wasn't planning on it. If I do, I'll probably do a funny video.
... entails a critique of your essay. We typically begin by telling ... say that you write an essay that just rehashes your r ... , and Z, based on the essay. But we won’t mark ...
... entails a critique of your essay. We typically begin by telling ... say that you write an essay that just rehashes your r ... , and Z, based on the essay. But we won’t mark ...