Where can I find good examples of expository essays for college applications?

In the context of college applications, most admissions essays lean toward narrative or personal reflection because schools want to get to know the person behind the grades and scores. It's pretty rare to see a pure expository essay—one that simply explains a topic or idea—in a college application unless the prompt specifically asks for it.

That said, it is possible to incorporate expository elements into your essay. For example, you might explain a passion, a challenge you've encountered, or the intricacies of a hobby or project. The key is to connect this explanation back to your personal growth, values, or goals. For instance, if you love robotics, you could spend part of your essay explaining a unique problem you solved with engineering skills, but you should weave in reflections on what you learned, how the experience shaped your interests, or why it matters to you.

If you want to see essays that have an expository flavor, look for sample "intellectual curiosity" or "describe an activity" essays. While many aren't strictly expository, some essays take a more explanatory approach to describing a personal learning journey, an academic fascination, or a process. For example, an essay about a student's fascination with urban architecture might explain the principles of sustainable design while also sharing their own experiences visiting green buildings—offering a blend of explanation and narrative.

There aren't a lot of online repositories dedicated purely to expository college essays, but a good resource is "Essays that Worked" on college websites (like Johns Hopkins, Carleton, or Tufts). Some of these pieces focus less on storytelling and more on the student's analytical perspective. Another approach is to check out The New York Times' "Modern Love" college essay contest or The Learning Network for teenager-written essays—they sometimes feature pieces that blend explanation with personal insight.

If you're more comfortable in an expository style, try this: take a subject or experience you love, explain it clearly, and then tie it back to your character, motivations, or future ambitions. This way, you don't lose the analytical voice you prefer, but you still show admissions officers who you are. For example, if a student loves chemistry, they could write about the concept of chemical equilibrium as a metaphor for balance in their own life, mixing explanation and self-reflection.

Ultimately, the best essays tend to combine elements of explanation (to showcase your intellect and interests) with narrative (to reveal your personality and journey). If you need more specific feedback as you write, getting a review from a teacher or essay advisor can help you find the right balance.