<p>I think you’re saying that you can write a great personal essay about your own experience/perspective without tying it in with the specific school you’re applying to, right? If so, I agree. (I don’t think you need to include a big “And that’s why I want to go to X University!” at the end of each essay.) But writing an excellent essay sends a message that you cared enough to spend the time and energy. (I don’t think there’s any problem with using the same essay on more than one application but it ought to be a good, thoughtful essay.)</p>
<p>Applications vary but many of them offer an opportunity to answer “Why this school?” in addition to the main essay. I think applicants can help themselves a lot by really thinking this through and writing something that shows they know about the school and demonstrating that they’d be a good fit. If a student is able to visit or interview at a school that’s another way to demonstrate interest. Basically, my point is that if a student wants to avoid a school thinking it’s “just a safety” there are things he can do to avoid that perception.</p>