What makes a college essay award-winning or stand out to admissions officers?

It's totally normal to feel pressured by the stories of "award-winning" college essays, but you don’t have to write something that instantly goes viral or lands in a compilation to make a strong impression on admissions officers. The truth is, standout essays aren’t just defined by their topic—they’re about how you tell your story.

While it’s true that some essays are about dramatic experiences, many of the most memorable ones center on simple, everyday moments that reveal something deeper about the writer. You don’t need an earth-shattering event; you just need to provide insight into who you are, what you value, or how you think.

For example, an essay that stood out to Harvard admissions a few years ago described a student’s fascination with the worn surface of their kitchen table. Through anecdotes about family meals, homework, and even spilled soup, the writer showed how this table represented resilience, growth, and togetherness in their life. There was no dramatic twist—just honest reflection and vivid details that connected on an emotional level.

What award-winning essays often have in common are:
- A personal, authentic voice. Your writing should sound like you—not like a formal autobiography or a resume. Admissions officers want to get a sense of the real you.
- Specific, vivid details. Rather than broad claims, they use concrete examples, sensory descriptions, or mini-scenes.
- Reflection. Top essays include thoughtful reflection, connecting what happened to how the writer has changed or what they value now. The “so what?” is clear.
- Creativity. This doesn’t mean wild language or weird formats (though those can work, too), but a unique perspective, structure, or way of seeing the world. Even classic topics can feel fresh in the right voice.

Simple topics—like feeding birds with a grandparent, learning to braid hair, or conquering a personal fear at summer camp—can be powerful if you dig into what they meant to you and how you grew as a result.

If you’re feeling unsure about your ideas, choose one that matters to you, even if it feels ordinary. Think about a moment of conflict, growth, or realization, and show the reader why it was important. Writing authentically about what matters to you is often more compelling than trying to impress with an "award-winning" topic.

If possible, read real essay examples from schools you admire. Many colleges share essays from admitted students, which can be a great way to see the variety in styles and stories that succeed. Ultimately, it's how deeply and honestly you explore your experience that will set you apart.