While I think all open ended essay questions should be answered eg "In this space you may add any additional info you would like the AdCom to know about you" I think if a school asks a specific question "Do you have a connection to Wash U?" it's better to be upfront and say 'no' than write some BS essay about something other than what the question asked
Do you have a connection to Wash U
"Well, one time I saw St Louis on a map, and I've always wanted to see the arch - what is that made of by the way, cow hide? - and it is true that I "Wash me" every day...."
I think you'de just end up sounding stupid, like you can't read a question properly...