Can I reuse a personal anecdote from another essay?

You can, but you have to be smart about it. Reusing a personal anecdote is totally fair game if it fits the new prompt and still feels fresh. Think of it like recycling a great outfit for a different party, just make sure it is tailored to the occasion. Copy-pasting an old essay without tweaking it is a recipe for disaster because each school or scholarship might be looking for something a little different. Take the core of your story and reshape it to match the vibe and questions of the new essay. If the anecdote still highlights your growth, values, or perspective in a meaningful way, then it is ready for a second life.