Where can I find examples of the best college essays written by students in Houston?

Getting inspiration from essays written by local students is a great way to see how others use their unique Houston or Texas background to tell compelling stories. While there isn't a massive centralized database dedicated specifically to Houston students' essays, there are still several effective ways to find what you're looking for:

Start by checking with your high school’s college counseling office. Many Houston high schools, especially those with large senior classes, keep a collection of anonymized student essays that got their writers into selective universities. You can often schedule an appointment with a college counselor and ask to see this collection.

Another place to check is the admissions websites for big Texas schools like UT Austin and Texas A&M. Occasionally, they post selected essays from successful applicants, some of whom may be from Houston. Reading essays from Texas students, even if not directly from Houston, can give you insight into how people incorporate local culture—like references to city life, community involvement, or regional issues.

Finally, if you know any recent graduates from Houston who are now in college, reach out to see if they’d share their essays with you or offer advice. Sometimes the most helpful insights come from peers who recently went through the same process.

Keep in mind, the most impactful essays are ones that connect your unique story to larger themes, whether it's through referencing Houston’s cultural diversity or a specific neighborhood experience. Seeing how others do this can spark ideas for your essay, so don’t be shy about reaching out and asking for those resources!