Where can I find good examples of college essays?
I'm getting started on my college applications and everyone says that reading sample essays is helpful for inspiration. I tried googling but there are so many different sites, and I'm not sure which ones are legit or actually helpful.
If anyone has recommendations for where to find real, accepted student essays (especially for top schools), or can share what kinds of essays helped them most, I'd really appreciate it. Also, do you think it's better to read a lot of essays from various topics, or focus on ones more similar to my background and interests?
I'd like to see what made those essays stand out.
If anyone has recommendations for where to find real, accepted student essays (especially for top schools), or can share what kinds of essays helped them most, I'd really appreciate it. Also, do you think it's better to read a lot of essays from various topics, or focus on ones more similar to my background and interests?
I'd like to see what made those essays stand out.
6 months ago
•
86 views
Lydia Schooler
• 6 months ago
Advisor
Great question—finding reliable sources for sample college essays can really help spark ideas and show you what makes a I’m a Yale graduate and college admissions advisor with over 8 years of experience helping students gain admission to top universities like Harvard, Stanford, and MIT. I’ve worked with thousands of students on crafting standout essays, so I can share trusted sources for finding high-quality examples and tips for getting the most out of them.
One of the best places to find real, accepted essays is on official university admissions websites. Schools like Johns Hopkins, Connecticut College, and Tufts often publish essays from admitted students, along with commentary from admissions officers explaining why they worked. These examples are vetted and give clear insight into what each school values.
Books such as “50 Successful Harvard Application Essays” compile essays with analysis, and similar books exist for other top schools. Public libraries and school guidance offices sometimes have these collections as well — just make sure the essays were from actual admits, not generic samples.
For free online options, look for essays featured by nonprofits or organizations focused on college access. The College Essay Guy website offers examples, and some Reddit communities like r/ApplyingToCollege share essays with thoughtful discussion (though you should confirm authenticity before relying on them).
When deciding whether to read essays from students with backgrounds similar to yours or from a variety of perspectives, both approaches are valuable. Diverse essays can inspire new ways to structure and tell your story, while similar-background essays can give targeted ideas for how to frame experiences you relate to. For instance, if you’re a first-generation student, reading how others convey family or cultural shifts can help you shape your own narrative.
As you read, don’t just note the topics — pay attention to the voice, sense of reflection, and how the writer connects their story to personal growth or values. One standout example I’ve seen was from a student who wrote about assembling Ikea furniture with her mom. On the surface, it was about a simple family moment, but it revealed resilience, creativity, and humor — qualities that resonated strongly with admissions officers.
Over the past 8 years, I’ve helped thousands of students craft essays and applications that stand out at the most selective schools, including the Ivy League and Stanford. To give each student the highest level of attention, I keep my caseload small — booking early guarantees a place. I’m currently offering free consultations for new Sundial families where we’ll review your goals, brainstorm essay ideas, and outline a clear application strategy. You can book directly through my profile.
I know this process can feel overwhelming at times, but you are fully capable of navigating it successfully. I’m always here to help guide you through it.
One of the best places to find real, accepted essays is on official university admissions websites. Schools like Johns Hopkins, Connecticut College, and Tufts often publish essays from admitted students, along with commentary from admissions officers explaining why they worked. These examples are vetted and give clear insight into what each school values.
Books such as “50 Successful Harvard Application Essays” compile essays with analysis, and similar books exist for other top schools. Public libraries and school guidance offices sometimes have these collections as well — just make sure the essays were from actual admits, not generic samples.
For free online options, look for essays featured by nonprofits or organizations focused on college access. The College Essay Guy website offers examples, and some Reddit communities like r/ApplyingToCollege share essays with thoughtful discussion (though you should confirm authenticity before relying on them).
When deciding whether to read essays from students with backgrounds similar to yours or from a variety of perspectives, both approaches are valuable. Diverse essays can inspire new ways to structure and tell your story, while similar-background essays can give targeted ideas for how to frame experiences you relate to. For instance, if you’re a first-generation student, reading how others convey family or cultural shifts can help you shape your own narrative.
As you read, don’t just note the topics — pay attention to the voice, sense of reflection, and how the writer connects their story to personal growth or values. One standout example I’ve seen was from a student who wrote about assembling Ikea furniture with her mom. On the surface, it was about a simple family moment, but it revealed resilience, creativity, and humor — qualities that resonated strongly with admissions officers.
Over the past 8 years, I’ve helped thousands of students craft essays and applications that stand out at the most selective schools, including the Ivy League and Stanford. To give each student the highest level of attention, I keep my caseload small — booking early guarantees a place. I’m currently offering free consultations for new Sundial families where we’ll review your goals, brainstorm essay ideas, and outline a clear application strategy. You can book directly through my profile.
I know this process can feel overwhelming at times, but you are fully capable of navigating it successfully. I’m always here to help guide you through it.
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