Sounds like you are on the right track.
The only thing I would caution you on with regard to reading others’ essays – try to think very broadly about what worked for them. I might avoid getting too specific about figures of speech, etc. What is more important than “popping” is the essays telling the admissions team about who you truly are. Less about pop or flash and more about a true or tender connection. Authenticity more than dazzle. Does that make sense?
Also, I think I said this last year to you, but I’ll say it again: read what you wrote aloud before submitting anything. Ask yourself: Does ANYTHING, even one word, feel like it’s not 100% YOU? Also ask yourself: are you more in love with yourself (in a good, healthy, non-ego way) now that you have just read that essay than you were five minutes ago? ( you should be.)
Finally, you asked how to “sound more interesting.” I would say, if you don’t already think you are interesting, then you have some personal digging to do. In other words, don’t write anything you don’t deeply believe. (And, I believe you ARE interesting. You just need to dig for it.). Your brainstorming exercises with college essays will really help you find what is fascinating about you. Worry less about being a “good writer.” Make the writing reflect you. Your goal is not to impress them. Your goal is to make them really want to sit down to a cup of coffee and ask you more.