Can anyone share examples of successful Ivy League college essays?

Reading sample essays can be super helpful for figuring out tone, structure, and how personal you can get. While no one should copy another essay, understanding what works can spark ideas for your own writing.

A lot of successful Ivy League essays aren't about huge, dramatic achievements; instead, they focus on something very personal and specific. One classic example is an essay about the sounds someone hears in their kitchen when their whole family is cooking together — using the details of each sound to reveal family tradition, history, and even conflict, then tying that moment back to what matters most to the student. Another popular (but effective) topic involves small, everyday moments, like fixing bikes with a grandparent and learning about patience and innovation in the process.

Here's a brief excerpt from a real Ivy League admit: "I never expected that vacuuming the living room every Sunday would teach me the value of perseverance. But as I moved the heavy couch, inch by inch, each week for my grandmother, I learned that small, consistent actions can build trust and respect in a family." This works because it takes something ordinary and elevates it with strong reflection.

There's no magic formula, but authenticity, detailed storytelling, and clear personal growth are key. Ivy League schools want to see your thought process and how you respond to challenges or new environments. They care much more about your voice and unique perspective than a resume of accomplishments or a dramatic life event.

Don't worry about fitting into a mold. Instead, focus on a meaningful story, big or small, and show what you learned from it. Don't be afraid to be vulnerable, honest, or even a little quirky if that's true to you. If you ever feel stuck, sometimes listing 5-10 key moments in your life (even if they seem minor) and thinking about what each one taught you can help you find your story.

Remember, admissions officers read thousands of essays — what sticks is a genuine, reflective voice.