Where can I find good Boston College essay examples to help with my application?

You’re definitely not alone in wanting to see real Boston College essays—reading strong examples can be extremely helpful for understanding what works and what authentic voices sound like.

For Boston College-specific essay examples, one of the best places to start is the Boston College admissions website itself. While they don’t always publish full essays, they occasionally share excerpts or advice from successful applicants. Check under their "Blogs" or "Advice" section if available.

Another reputable source is Johns Hopkins University’s "Essays That Worked" page. While it’s not for BC, it offers full essays from admitted students, many of whom applied to similarly selective schools. The tone and style you'll see there can give you insight into what top-tier institutions respond to.

Reddit (particularly r/ApplyingToCollege) often has threads where current and former applicants post their essays or feedback. Sometimes, students share their BC essays once they’ve been accepted, and you can use the search bar to look for "Boston College essay examples." Just remember to verify that these examples are actually from accepted applicants, as the quality can vary. Ask in the comments for confirmation if you’re unsure.

You might also want to check essay books in your school or local library. Books like "50 Successful Harvard Application Essays" or "College Essays That Made a Difference" often include essays from students admitted to multiple schools, sometimes including BC. For an example of specificity, I found it helpful in the past to read how one student responded personally to BC’s Jesuit values prompt by connecting it to a service project in their neighborhood and reflecting on self-discovery—rather than simply stating the importance of service, they described a moment when they made a difficult ethical choice.

Overall, use examples as a way to spark ideas for tone, structure, and authenticity, but make sure your essay is your unique story. The strongest essays show real self-reflection and insight—not just polished prose. Good luck, and don’t get discouraged if you hit a wall; sometimes a breakthrough comes right after!