What makes a college essay stand out as the 'greatest' ever written?

The college essays that are remembered as ‘the greatest’ are often those that make the admissions officer feel genuinely connected to the writer, even in just a few minutes. It’s less about world-shattering events and more about how you translate your perspective, voice, and values onto the page. The topic itself usually isn’t groundbreaking; it’s the way you approach and reflect on your experiences.

For example, an essay that sticks with readers might zoom in on a specific, personal moment: maybe you describe obsessively making origami cranes for your cousin’s wedding, and along the way, reveal how folding paper shaped your patience and family relationships. Or maybe you talk about a quirky family tradition, showing humor and vulnerability, while weaving in what matters most to you. The best essays often
focus on one story (rather than a broad life summary) and use vivid details to create a clear picture of your world.

Writing style definitely plays a role—it should sound authentically like you, not like a resume or a seminar paper. Admissions officers are looking for essays that feel fresh and genuine, so if your voice comes through and your reflections are honest, that already gives you a big boost. Strong essays also show growth or a shift in perspective, even if the initial topic is mundane.

You don’t need a life-altering hardship to stand out. For instance, one famous essay described a student’s fascination with Costco and used it as a way to discuss curiosity, adaptation, and navigating different communities. It was unique not because the story was dramatic, but because the insights were unexpected and deeply personal.

If you want your essay to be memorable, try to:
1. Pick a specific moment rather than a broad theme.
2. Share what you learned or how you changed as a result.
3. Let your authentic voice shine through, even if that means joking or being a bit vulnerable.
4. Include details that only you could write about—tiny pieces of your world that stick in the mind.

If you’re interested in examples, look up essays that schools publish (sometimes labeled as ‘essays that worked’). But remember: it’s not about copying their stories, but understanding how they said something universal in a way that was unique to them. At the heart of it all, the greatest college essays make the reader feel like they’ve gotten to know someone real—someone they can imagine on their campus.