Where can I find good sample college application essays for inspiration?
I know that essays are a really important part of college applications, and I’ve been trying to figure out how to start mine. I feel like looking at examples could help spark some ideas or at least show me how others structured their essays.
Does anyone know of any trustworthy sites or books where people share real, successful application essays? I’m not looking to copy, but I think reading a few would help me get a sense of what works. If anyone has links or suggestions, I’d appreciate it!
I’m also kind of worried I’ll start comparing myself too much, but I want to use samples as a guide and not a competition. Would love to hear what’s helped other people.
Does anyone know of any trustworthy sites or books where people share real, successful application essays? I’m not looking to copy, but I think reading a few would help me get a sense of what works. If anyone has links or suggestions, I’d appreciate it!
I’m also kind of worried I’ll start comparing myself too much, but I want to use samples as a guide and not a competition. Would love to hear what’s helped other people.
6 months ago
•
21 views
Camille Luong
• 6 months ago
Advisor
Looking at sample essays is a smart way to get started. Not only can they help you get a feel for structure and tone, but they’ll also give you ideas about how different students approach telling their stories. Just make sure, as you mentioned, that you use them for inspiration only and avoid comparing yourself directly. Everyone’s story is different!
There are a few trustworthy sources you can check out:
1. College admissions websites: Some colleges, like Johns Hopkins and Tufts, post sample essays from admitted students. For example, "Essays That Worked" on the Johns Hopkins site includes commentary from admissions officers about why each essay stood out. That honest feedback can be super helpful for seeing what works and why.
2. Books: A couple of standard books are full of successful essays and usually include tips. "On Writing the College Application Essay" by Harry Bauld and "50 Successful Harvard Application Essays" are well-known options. The essays in these books are diverse, and some include admissions commentary.
3. Educational organizations: Organizations like The College Essay Guy and College Board sometimes share sample essays or guides that break down what each essay does well.
As for your concern about comparison, remember that every applicant has their own voice and path. What’s most valuable is noticing how these essays reveal something unique about the person behind the words. For example, you might read an essay about a student who painted mailboxes in their neighborhood. The details are specific to them, but you can notice the techniques: vivid storytelling, personal growth, and insight into who they are.
When you read, pay attention to how each essay starts, how it tells a story, and how it reflects the writer’s personality. Jot down what you like or don’t like, and then brainstorm a few moments in your own life that were meaningful or formative—even if they seem small.
Finally, remind yourself that your goal is to share your authentic story, not to match someone else’s style or accomplishments. The best essays reflect your personality and values, whatever that looks like for you.
Good luck as you get started! Exploring examples thoughtfully is a great first step.
There are a few trustworthy sources you can check out:
1. College admissions websites: Some colleges, like Johns Hopkins and Tufts, post sample essays from admitted students. For example, "Essays That Worked" on the Johns Hopkins site includes commentary from admissions officers about why each essay stood out. That honest feedback can be super helpful for seeing what works and why.
2. Books: A couple of standard books are full of successful essays and usually include tips. "On Writing the College Application Essay" by Harry Bauld and "50 Successful Harvard Application Essays" are well-known options. The essays in these books are diverse, and some include admissions commentary.
3. Educational organizations: Organizations like The College Essay Guy and College Board sometimes share sample essays or guides that break down what each essay does well.
As for your concern about comparison, remember that every applicant has their own voice and path. What’s most valuable is noticing how these essays reveal something unique about the person behind the words. For example, you might read an essay about a student who painted mailboxes in their neighborhood. The details are specific to them, but you can notice the techniques: vivid storytelling, personal growth, and insight into who they are.
When you read, pay attention to how each essay starts, how it tells a story, and how it reflects the writer’s personality. Jot down what you like or don’t like, and then brainstorm a few moments in your own life that were meaningful or formative—even if they seem small.
Finally, remind yourself that your goal is to share your authentic story, not to match someone else’s style or accomplishments. The best essays reflect your personality and values, whatever that looks like for you.
Good luck as you get started! Exploring examples thoughtfully is a great first step.
Comments & Questions (0)
No comments yet. Be the first to ask a question or share your thoughts!
Start the conversation
Have a follow-up question or want to share your experience? Leave a comment below.
Related Questions
Students also ask…
Where can I find strong Stanford supplemental essay examples, and what makes them effective?
Where can I find strong Yale supplemental essay examples?
How many recommendation letters does Harvard require for freshman applicants?
What makes a strong Harvard application essay?
How do I ask a professor for a recommendation letter for college applications?
Camille Luong
Nomadic
Stanford University, BAH in Urban Studies
Experience
5 years
Rating
5.0 (5 reviews)