Where can I find authentic samples of successful college admission essays?
I'm getting ready to start working on my college apps this summer and I've heard it really helps to read actual essays from students who got in. I'm looking for high-quality examples, not just generic templates, because I want to see what worked for real applicants at schools like UChicago, NYU, or Stanford.
If you know any good websites, books, or even specific essays that were especially impactful, could you share them? I'd also love to read essays that are a little out of the box or unique since my story is kind of different from the usual prompts. Also, do you think it's okay to use them as inspiration, or could it hurt my chances if my essay seems too similar?
Appreciate any advice or resources you have!
If you know any good websites, books, or even specific essays that were especially impactful, could you share them? I'd also love to read essays that are a little out of the box or unique since my story is kind of different from the usual prompts. Also, do you think it's okay to use them as inspiration, or could it hurt my chances if my essay seems too similar?
Appreciate any advice or resources you have!
5 months ago
•
57 views
Camille Luong
• 5 months ago
Advisor
Reading real, successful college essays is a smart way to get a feel for what admissions officers are looking for—especially at competitive schools like UChicago, NYU, and Stanford. For authentic and diverse examples, try starting with official university websites: UChicago, for example, actually posts a "Past Prompts" and "Sample Essays" section, and Johns Hopkins shares a “Essays That Worked” page featuring recent admits’ essays with notes on why they stood out.
Some other reliable sources are books compiled by counselors or admissions experts. One classic is “50 Successful Harvard Application Essays,” which offers a variety of voices and styles with follow-up commentary. “College Essay Essentials” by Ethan Sawyer also shares concrete samples and walks you through what makes them strong. Another great online resource is the MIT Admissions blog, which sometimes features actual essays submitted by students, and CollegeVine’s blog, where you’ll find samples reviewed and analyzed.
If you want examples that are quirky or nontraditional, focus on UChicago’s Uncommon Essay prompts—they encourage out-of-the-box thinking, and samples are often shared online through forums or Reddit threads. For instance, UChicago once posted a student essay about the meaning of 'cicada'—it stood out because it blended humor and reflection in a way only that student could've written. Reading these can show you how risk-taking and authenticity pay off.
It’s definitely fine to use essays as inspiration to see structure, tone, or creativity, but never copy—admissions officers are experts at spotting recycled ideas or unnatural voices. Try using the essays to spark your own brainstorming. For example, if you’re drawn to a unique approach, like writing a letter to your future self, see how you can twist that to fit your own personality and experiences.
If your story is unconventional, lean into it! Memorable essays usually come from honest storytelling and distinct perspectives, not mimicking what others have done. Draw from samples to see what makes a voice memorable, then find your own version.
Last tip: always run your essay by a trusted teacher, mentor, or essay review service before submitting. They’ll make sure your essay is fresh, personal, and truly your own while still learning from what worked for others.
Some other reliable sources are books compiled by counselors or admissions experts. One classic is “50 Successful Harvard Application Essays,” which offers a variety of voices and styles with follow-up commentary. “College Essay Essentials” by Ethan Sawyer also shares concrete samples and walks you through what makes them strong. Another great online resource is the MIT Admissions blog, which sometimes features actual essays submitted by students, and CollegeVine’s blog, where you’ll find samples reviewed and analyzed.
If you want examples that are quirky or nontraditional, focus on UChicago’s Uncommon Essay prompts—they encourage out-of-the-box thinking, and samples are often shared online through forums or Reddit threads. For instance, UChicago once posted a student essay about the meaning of 'cicada'—it stood out because it blended humor and reflection in a way only that student could've written. Reading these can show you how risk-taking and authenticity pay off.
It’s definitely fine to use essays as inspiration to see structure, tone, or creativity, but never copy—admissions officers are experts at spotting recycled ideas or unnatural voices. Try using the essays to spark your own brainstorming. For example, if you’re drawn to a unique approach, like writing a letter to your future self, see how you can twist that to fit your own personality and experiences.
If your story is unconventional, lean into it! Memorable essays usually come from honest storytelling and distinct perspectives, not mimicking what others have done. Draw from samples to see what makes a voice memorable, then find your own version.
Last tip: always run your essay by a trusted teacher, mentor, or essay review service before submitting. They’ll make sure your essay is fresh, personal, and truly your own while still learning from what worked for others.
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Camille Luong
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Stanford University, BAH in Urban Studies
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5 years
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