Where can I find examples of college essays that actually worked?
I'm starting to brainstorm ideas for my college application essays, and honestly, I'm feeling a little overwhelmed by all the advice out there. It would be super helpful if I could read some actual essays that helped students get into top schools. Does anyone know where I can find real essays that worked, preferably with some commentary about what made them effective?
I’ve found a few online, but I’m worried some are just written to be samples and may not actually be the “real deal.” If anyone has links or book recommendations, or could even share what worked for you, I’d really appreciate it. I’m looking for inspiration and maybe a better sense of what admissions officers want to see.
I’ve found a few online, but I’m worried some are just written to be samples and may not actually be the “real deal.” If anyone has links or book recommendations, or could even share what worked for you, I’d really appreciate it. I’m looking for inspiration and maybe a better sense of what admissions officers want to see.
7 months ago
•
70 views
Lydia Schooler
• 7 months ago
Advisor
Feeling overwhelmed is totally normal—seeing real examples can definitely spark inspiration and give you clarity on what works. To start, universities like Johns Hopkins and Tufts publish collections of essays from admitted students each year. Johns Hopkins’ "Essays That Worked" is particularly helpful because each essay also has comments from admissions staff explaining what stood out in the essay. You can find this just by Googling "Johns Hopkins Essays That Worked."
Tufts University and Hamilton College have similar pages where you can read successful essays accompanied by admissions commentary. Harvard has also published student essays in the past, and a few can still be found on their admissions website.
Books like "50 Successful Harvard Application Essays" or "College Essay Essentials" by Ethan Sawyer (also known as The College Essay Guy) include a wide range of real essays, usually with detailed analysis about what makes them effective. If you prefer something with step-by-step breakdowns, "On Writing the College Application Essay" by Harry Bauld is another classic, though it leans more on advice than pure samples.
As for what makes an essay effective: it’s usually a combination of authenticity, strong storytelling, and a unique personal voice. The very best essays aren't always about grand achievements; sometimes, a small, introspective moment packs the biggest punch. For example, one standout essay featured a student reflecting on their curiosity through collecting potato chips with distinct shapes. It’s weirdly specific, but it let the student reveal creativity and attention to detail, which made the essay memorable.
If you have access to a school counselor or a college essay review service, sometimes they can share anonymized samples from past students too. Whichever samples you read, make sure to note how each writer's personality shines through. Use them for inspiration, but always filter your ideas through your own experiences and voice—that’s what admissions officers are hoping to learn about.
Tufts University and Hamilton College have similar pages where you can read successful essays accompanied by admissions commentary. Harvard has also published student essays in the past, and a few can still be found on their admissions website.
Books like "50 Successful Harvard Application Essays" or "College Essay Essentials" by Ethan Sawyer (also known as The College Essay Guy) include a wide range of real essays, usually with detailed analysis about what makes them effective. If you prefer something with step-by-step breakdowns, "On Writing the College Application Essay" by Harry Bauld is another classic, though it leans more on advice than pure samples.
As for what makes an essay effective: it’s usually a combination of authenticity, strong storytelling, and a unique personal voice. The very best essays aren't always about grand achievements; sometimes, a small, introspective moment packs the biggest punch. For example, one standout essay featured a student reflecting on their curiosity through collecting potato chips with distinct shapes. It’s weirdly specific, but it let the student reveal creativity and attention to detail, which made the essay memorable.
If you have access to a school counselor or a college essay review service, sometimes they can share anonymized samples from past students too. Whichever samples you read, make sure to note how each writer's personality shines through. Use them for inspiration, but always filter your ideas through your own experiences and voice—that’s what admissions officers are hoping to learn about.
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