While a one-paragraph introduction is common, it's not a requirement. You can absolutely vary the structure of your personal essay introduction, depending on the length and complexity of your essay and your personal writing style.
Here are some examples of varying introduction structures:
* Multiple paragraphs: A longer essay might benefit from two or even three paragraphs to introduce the topic, set the scene, and establish your thesis statement.
* Direct address: Instead of a traditional introduction, you could start with a question, an anecdote, or even directly address the reader.
* Dialogue: You could start your essay with a conversation fragment to draw the reader in.
The key is to make sure your introduction is engaging, informative, and sets the stage for the rest of your essay.