Well, maybe not safe safe, but let's say somewhere between competitive with safe. And YES of course I want to encourage you (while remaining frank). Encouragement gives you energy! And the voyage can be long and hard, dude!
As for the tone, I can't say exactly what you should do without working on it with you. A semi-formal tone can work, but also might be too "Standard" (I think I would categorize semi-formal as what most people use, but it's too subjective to say what it means without seeing actual writing). Some people go with totally formal, others with totally informal. Basically you have to find what works for you. And it is true that the VOICE you take in your essays is another area in which you can add uniqueness to your profile. (taking risks can pay off too).
Hope this helps, dude!
As for the tone, I can't say exactly what you should do without working on it with you. A semi-formal tone can work, but also might be too "Standard" (I think I would categorize semi-formal as what most people use, but it's too subjective to say what it means without seeing actual writing). Some people go with totally formal, others with totally informal. Basically you have to find what works for you. And it is true that the VOICE you take in your essays is another area in which you can add uniqueness to your profile. (taking risks can pay off too).
Hope this helps, dude!