Where can I find the best college essay samples for inspiration?
I've been struggling with my college essay drafts, and I feel like reading some really good examples could help me figure out how to make my story stand out. Does anyone know of websites, books, or even old threads here that have some of the best college essay samples?
I'm especially interested in essays that got students into top schools, but I'm open to any essay that's considered strong. If you have a favorite essay (maybe your own or a friend's!) and you're willing to share, that would be super helpful! Also, are there things I should look for when reading these samples to get the most out of them?
Any advice or links to resources would be really appreciated. I'm just looking for direction because I don't want my essay to sound too generic.
I'm especially interested in essays that got students into top schools, but I'm open to any essay that's considered strong. If you have a favorite essay (maybe your own or a friend's!) and you're willing to share, that would be super helpful! Also, are there things I should look for when reading these samples to get the most out of them?
Any advice or links to resources would be really appreciated. I'm just looking for direction because I don't want my essay to sound too generic.
7 months ago
•
80 views
Lydia Schooler
• 7 months ago
Advisor
Reading strong college essay samples can be a huge help when you’re trying to brainstorm your own approach. There are several reputable places you can find excellent examples:
One reliable option is college admissions websites themselves—schools like Johns Hopkins, Hamilton, and Tufts post essays from admitted students, complete with commentary about why each essay worked. For instance, Hamilton College has a page titled “Essays That Worked,” which features diverse stories and explanations of their strengths. These samples range from lighthearted to deeply personal, so you can see what resonates with different readers.
Some books also compile standout essays. Titles like “On Writing the College Application Essay” by Harry Bauld and “50 Successful Harvard Application Essays” offer both essays and commentary. Your local library or bookseller should have a few on hand, or you might find PDF excerpts online.
Websites such as the "Johns Hopkins Essays That Worked" page, the College Essay Guy’s website, and the New York Times “On Campus” section showcase a variety of real essays. Searching for "essays that worked" with the college name (e.g., ‘Stanford essays that worked’) in your search engine often pulls up samples on school or student sites.
If you want peer-to-peer feedback and authentic student voices, college admissions forums often have old threads where people have posted their essays and received critiques. Just double-check the credibility of the posters, since not everything posted is an example of best practices.
When you read these essays, pay attention to what makes them interesting—a unique voice, fresh perspective, or a specific, detailed story. For example, one memorable essay featured a student reflecting on their love of collecting roadkill insects as a way to connect with nature and demonstrate curiosity—definitely unusual, but it showed genuine passion and growth. Notice how the writer connects their specific experience to something broader about them as a person.
As you look through samples, avoid copying themes or language. Instead, jot down techniques you admire—the way someone opened with an intriguing sentence, or how they used humor or vulnerability. Ask yourself, "How did this essay let me know who the writer is beyond just accomplishments?"
Ultimately, the best essays reveal personality, authenticity, and thoughtfulness—no matter the topic. Use these samples to inspire your voice, not to duplicate someone else’s story. Good luck, and don’t be afraid to experiment with your draft until it feels genuinely you!
One reliable option is college admissions websites themselves—schools like Johns Hopkins, Hamilton, and Tufts post essays from admitted students, complete with commentary about why each essay worked. For instance, Hamilton College has a page titled “Essays That Worked,” which features diverse stories and explanations of their strengths. These samples range from lighthearted to deeply personal, so you can see what resonates with different readers.
Some books also compile standout essays. Titles like “On Writing the College Application Essay” by Harry Bauld and “50 Successful Harvard Application Essays” offer both essays and commentary. Your local library or bookseller should have a few on hand, or you might find PDF excerpts online.
Websites such as the "Johns Hopkins Essays That Worked" page, the College Essay Guy’s website, and the New York Times “On Campus” section showcase a variety of real essays. Searching for "essays that worked" with the college name (e.g., ‘Stanford essays that worked’) in your search engine often pulls up samples on school or student sites.
If you want peer-to-peer feedback and authentic student voices, college admissions forums often have old threads where people have posted their essays and received critiques. Just double-check the credibility of the posters, since not everything posted is an example of best practices.
When you read these essays, pay attention to what makes them interesting—a unique voice, fresh perspective, or a specific, detailed story. For example, one memorable essay featured a student reflecting on their love of collecting roadkill insects as a way to connect with nature and demonstrate curiosity—definitely unusual, but it showed genuine passion and growth. Notice how the writer connects their specific experience to something broader about them as a person.
As you look through samples, avoid copying themes or language. Instead, jot down techniques you admire—the way someone opened with an intriguing sentence, or how they used humor or vulnerability. Ask yourself, "How did this essay let me know who the writer is beyond just accomplishments?"
Ultimately, the best essays reveal personality, authenticity, and thoughtfulness—no matter the topic. Use these samples to inspire your voice, not to duplicate someone else’s story. Good luck, and don’t be afraid to experiment with your draft until it feels genuinely you!
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