Where can I find examples of college admissions essays that worked?

Looking at real college essays can be super helpful when you're starting your own drafts. There are several resources where you can find collections of essays that helped students get into top schools. A classic starting point is the book “50 Successful Harvard Application Essays” by the Harvard Crimson, which includes essays from admitted students along with brief commentary.

Many universities will also publish sample essays on their admissions blogs. For example, Johns Hopkins University has an easily accessible page called “Essays That Worked,” which showcases successful application essays and sometimes even comments from admissions officers on what made them compelling. Tufts University has also posted creative essays from admitted students on their admissions blog.

Online college admissions forums and dedicated essay review services often share anonymized sample essays. There, you'll usually get essays for a variety of prompts, along with critiques. These examples are great for seeing how different writing styles and topics can work successfully.

When reading through these sample essays, pay attention to how the writers bring out specific, personal details and reflect authentic voices. An essay about a family recipe, a quirky hobby, or a pivotal moment often stands out because it reveals something unique about the person—think of an essay where someone described a typical Saturday morning in their family’s bakery, connecting small moments to their larger character and ambitions.

Just a tip: while reading samples is inspiring, remember that your essay should be a reflection of you. Take notes on what resonates, but don’t worry about matching the exact themes or formats you see. Use the examples as jumping-off points for brainstorming and shaping your individual story.

Good luck starting your drafts, and don’t hesitate to reach out for more specific advice along the way!