Hi everyone! Can you recommend some sample college essays from students who got into top schools using the Common App? I want to see what worked for others, so I can get a better idea of how to approach my own essays.
Of course! It's always helpful to read successful essays to get a better sense of what colleges are looking for. Here are a few examples of standout Common App essays that worked for students who got into top schools:
1. "The Costco Essay": This essay, written by Brittany Stinson, went viral after she was accepted to five Ivy League schools. The essay talks about her experiences wandering through Costco with her mother. The unique angle she takes and the engaging narrative she creates not only entertains the reader, but also demonstrates her thoughtfulness, curiosity, and ability to make connections between seemingly unrelated experiences.
2. "Grandma's Kimchi": This essay, by an anonymous student, was published by The New York Times and showcases how food, specifically kimchi, played a significant role in the author's personal and cultural identity. The vivid descriptions and the connections made between food and family provide a unique perspective on the author's background and values.
Link: https://www.nytimes.com/2018/08/04/your-money/writing-college-application-essays.html
3. "Learning to Play the Piano": This essay tells the story of a student (Ethan Sawyer) who, despite his lack of natural talent for playing the piano, perseveres through countless hours of practice, ultimately proving that dedication and hard work pay off. The essay is filled with humor and charm while masterfully conveying the importance of perseverance and consistent effort.
Link: https://www.collegeessayguy.com/blog/college-essay-examples
Remember that while these essays worked for their respective authors, you should use them as inspiration, not imitation. Your own essay should still reflect your unique experiences, voice, and perspective. Read through these samples, analyze the storytelling techniques used, and think about how you can showcase your individuality in your own essay.
4. Additionally, CollegeVine has an entire section of their blog dedicated to college essay guides and this post has 21 essays you can read for inspiration that answer each of the 7 Common App prompts.
https://blog.collegevine.com/common-app-essay-examples
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