Where can I find 5 strong college essay examples for inspiration?

If you're looking to read strong college essay examples for inspiration, you're not alone—seeing actual essays can make brainstorming and drafting much easier.

To start, the "Essays that Worked" section on Johns Hopkins University's admissions website is widely recommended. These are real, accepted essays with commentary about why they stood out, and the topics range from personal hobbies to unique problem-solving stories. Another excellent source is Hamilton College's "Real College Essays," which provides a diverse array of essays, along with notes on what made each one successful.

You can also check out the College Essay Guy website, which features several sample essays broken down by type, such as "personal narrative" or "montage." These include both long-form Common App essays and shorter supplemental responses. The New York Times often publishes a selection of standout essays in their annual collection, typically in the spring—search "New York Times college essays" for the latest batch.

Finally, admissions blogs like Tufts University's "Why Tufts?" page offer specific essay samples for supplements.

For example, you might find a story on overcoming language barriers as a sibling translator, a deeply introspective essay about a family tradition, or a creative piece written from the perspective of an object (one student wrote from the point of view of a pair of shoes). Each offers a different voice and structure, showing that there’s no single right way to approach your story.

As you read, focus on the unique voice, personal reflection, and how the writer connects their story to their growth. Use these examples to spark your own ideas—you might find that a certain style resonates with you, or that you relate to a particular challenge or quirky interest shared in one of the essays.

Happy writing, and remember that your own perspective is what will make your essay stand out!