Where can I find good Common App essay examples to help inspire my writing?

It's completely normal to feel overwhelmed at this stage! Finding and reviewing sample Common App essays can definitely spark ideas and help you get a sense of what works well.

Some reputable websites regularly publish successful applicant essays—these often include essays from Ivy League or other highly selective schools, along with helpful reflections or feedback on what made them stand out. You can find such examples on college counseling websites, the official Common App website, and even in books dedicated to successful essays. University admissions sites sometimes feature essays from admitted students as well.

When using sample essays for inspiration, treat them like guideposts rather than templates. Focus on how authors structure their stories, the personal details they share, and the unique voice they use, rather than the actual content or format. For example, you might notice how an essay draws the reader in with a specific moment—like recounting the tension right before performing at a school concert—or how it ties a personal quirk to a bigger theme about identity or growth.

A great tip is to jot down what you liked about certain essays, and then brainstorm your own stories or moments where you’ve felt challenged, excited, or even a little vulnerable. Think personal and specific—a story about your unique perspective at a Model UN conference, the time you reconnected with a family tradition, or that unusual summer job you took. Originality comes from your voice and experiences, not just the topic itself.

Remember, colleges want to learn something authentic about you that isn’t on the rest of your application. Read essays to see how that's accomplished, but always make your writing reflect you, not someone else. Even two people writing about the same experience will naturally create deeply personal, distinct essays if they focus on their own insights, reactions, and growth.

If you want some added structure, you could search for essays included in official Common App materials, essay-focused college admissions books, or blog posts from admissions offices. And if you get stuck, asking a trusted friend or teacher to read your draft can help highlight your unique voice.

Good luck—you've got this! Once you see a few real essays, it'll get much easier to start crafting your own story.