College Essay Examples: Expert Samples for Your Success

College Essay Examples: Getting Started

A lot of students get nervous when it comes time to write their college essays. It’s not an easy task, but it’s not as challenging as it sounds. There’s a specific path that you can follow to write great essays based around the Common App prompts that involves a little self-reflection, brainstorming, finding your voice, writing a lot of drafts and always revising. With so much work ahead of you, it’s imperative you start this process well in advance.

The Common App prompts are always available online so you can start reviewing each of them to find which one resonates most with you. We’ll list the prompts here as well with a college essay example for each one. But we’ll start this blog by talking about why acing your college essays are so important and what are the things you should remember when starting to think about writing your own college essays.

College Essays Examples: How to Write Great College Essays

Now, you might wonder, "How do I write a college essay that stands out?" The answer lies in understanding what makes an essay compelling. First and foremost, it must be authentic. The admissions committee reads thousands of essays, and they can spot insincerity and fabrication from miles away. But think about what you enjoy reading, and what makes something interesting to read. The types of things that grab your attention as a reader are the same things that you should use when writing your college essays.

For example, the kinds of the things that you, as a reader, and admissions committees, as an audience, find compelling include:

• Showing vulnerability, uncertainty
• Talking about a failure
• A struggle you experienced and overcame

Some of the best college essays are written by people willing to showcase their flaws and setbacks and demonstrating that there is a real human being behind these words and not just a mish-mash of numbers and letters. For instance, an essay that narrates the story of how you struggled in a particular subject but persevered, sought help, and eventually overcame your obstacles can be far more compelling than an essay that lists your accomplishments without any narrative arc.

Tell Your Story

Your essay should be a true reflection of who you are. Don't try to mold your story to fit what you think the admissions officers want to hear. Authenticity resonates more than perfection, so don’t feel the need to embellish, fabulate or outright lie. You should use your real-life experiences to tell your story in a way that grabs your audience’s attention, which brings us to our second point.

Another critical element of a standout essay is the narrative flow and structure. A well-structured essay guides the reader through your thoughts and experiences seamlessly and cohesively. It doesn't confuse or lose the reader halfway. To do this, you should plan your essay before you start writing. Create an outline, decide on the story's arc, and determine how you want to start and end your narrative.

The introduction and conclusion are particularly important, so you should definitely investigate how to start a college essay. The former sets the tone and piques the reader's interest, while the latter ties everything together and leaves a lasting impression. However, you don’t want to use this opportunity to reinvent the wheel or invent a new narrative type. Creativity for creativity's sake can backfire if not executed properly, so it’s essential to strike a balance – be creative, but ensure your essay remains accessible and your message clear. The style should enhance your story, not overshadow it.

Make Your Reader Feel Something

One thing you should also remember about college essays is that a standout college essay speaks to the reader's emotions. It doesn't just narrate events; it makes the reader feel something. This emotional connection can be achieved through vivid storytelling, relatable experiences, or even humor. When a reader, in this case, an admissions officer, feels emotionally engaged, your essay and, by extension, your application becomes memorable.

When you start your brainstorming sessions, and when you’re editing your drafts, remember to keep the reader in mind. Your essay is not just about expressing yourself; it's also about connecting with the person on the other side of the table. Imagine you're telling your story to someone you respect and want to engage with, not just someone you want to impress.

In summary, a standout college essay is authentic, well-structured, engaging, and emotionally resonant. It's a narrative that reveals who you are, not just what you've achieved. It respects the reader and seeks to connect with them on a personal level. As you write your essay, keep these principles in mind, and don't forget to reflect on powerful college essay examples for inspiration.

College Essay Examples: Common App Prompt #1

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

Sample Essay

The night of the concert arrived, and I stepped onto the stage, my heart pounding with excitement and nervousness. As I began to play, the music flowed through me, and I lost myself in its beauty. The audience's applause at the end was thunderous, and in that moment, I realized the power of music to connect with people's emotions and transcend language. And it was all because of Mr. Johnson.

My parents, both music enthusiasts, filled our home with melodies from a range of genres. It was in this musical environment that my fascination with the piano was born. At the age of seven, I began tinkering with the old, slightly out-of-tune piano in our living room. My enthusiasm for the piano soon caught the attention of Mr. Johnson, our town's music teacher and a passionate advocate for nurturing young talent.

Under his guidance, I embarked on a transformative musical journey. Mr. Johnson saw my potential and selflessly dedicated his time and expertise to help me develop my skills. Mr. Johnson's impact extended far beyond teaching me to play the piano proficiently. He instilled in me the values of discipline, dedication, and perseverance. I spent countless hours practicing, sometimes to the point of frustration, but he never let me give up. His unwavering support bolstered my confidence and encouraged me to aim higher, to dream bigger.

Mr. Johnson was the one who told me about the Harmonyville Community Concert and encouraged me to audition. He helped me pick a musical piece within my talent range and helped me practice. The weeks leading up to the concert were a whirlwind of rehearsals, but Mr. Johnson's belief in me never wavered. He stood by my side, guiding me through every challenging passage and inspiring me to pour my heart into the music.

Sadly, Mr. Johnson passed away a few years ago, leaving a void in our small community. His legacy lives on not only through my music but also in the countless lives he touched. My application would be incomplete without acknowledging the profound impact he had on my life. Mr. Johnson's mentorship and unwavering belief in my potential have not only nurtured my musical talent but also shaped my character.

College Essay Examples: Common App Prompt #2

The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience? 

Sample Essay

I was only nine when I stepped into one of the most dangerous parts of the world. I was scared of everything—the smugglers who guided us, the fellow migrants who shared our harrowing journey, the mysterious sounds of the jungle at night, the relentless rain that drenched us, and the oppressive heat that drained our strength. The jungle is a cacophony of sights and sounds, a symphony of life that can be both mesmerizing and terrifying,

The Darien Gap, a wild and untamed jungle spanning the border between Colombia and Panama, is a place of unforgiving beauty and unyielding challenges and no place for a child. But it was the only route available to us to get to the US. It took us eight days to get to the Panamanian border. I won’t talk about all the things I saw on that trip, but I will say that I was not the same person after. The journey instilled a deep-seated fear within me.

Even though I was surrounded by family, I felt alone and didn’t want to be left alone. I had nightmares and I was plagued by mood swings. I was overwhelmed by anxiety whenever I left the house. I only wanted to be indoors, under the protection of a roof. My family was understanding but they tried to get me help. Through a friend, I learned about a nature retreat started by a US Army veteran to help people deal with their traumatic experiences.

I was reluctant at first, but with the support of my friends and family, I signed up for the two-week camp. At the beginning, I felt all the fear and anxiety I felt before we went through the Gap; but our leader, Sam, talked about how it was important to focus on details – do we have enough food and water? Are the routes we’re taking safe? What is the forecast like? - to get our minds off the fear. As I trekked through serene forests, climbed majestic peaks, and watched breathtaking sunsets from mountaintops, I felt a rekindling of the wonder and awe I had once known.

During my trip through the Gap, I didn’t trust anyone. But over the two weeks I spent at the camp, I felt a camaraderie with my fellow campers. We helped each other carry heavy loads; shared our food and supplies; talked about our lives. Making those connections and having those shared experiences within the group helped me gradually overcome my anxieties. The fear that had once held me captive began to recede, replaced by a newfound appreciation for the beauty and solace that people and nature can offer.

College Essay Examples: Common App Prompt #3

Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

Sample Essay

One sunny afternoon during my junior year of high school, I found myself arguing with my teacher. My history teacher, Mrs. Anderson and I were in the midst of a passionate debate. The topic was a lesson on the Civil Rights Movement, a subject I had always believed I understood thoroughly. However, a particular perspective she presented that day prompted me to question and challenge my long-held beliefs.

As Mrs. Anderson delved into the complexities of the Civil Rights Movement, she introduced us to the idea that not all African Americans supported the nonviolent approach led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. She cited Malcolm X as a prominent figure who advocated for a more militant stance. This revelation caught me off guard, as my previous understanding had been somewhat one-dimensional.

Growing up in a predominantly white suburban neighborhood, my exposure to African American history had been limited. My initial reaction was to dismiss the idea that any African American could have disagreed with Dr. King's philosophy of nonviolence. However, my teacher's well-researched presentation, coupled with her encouragement to explore different perspectives, compelled me to reconsider.

The more I delved into this new perspective, the more I realized how my prior beliefs had been shaped by a lack of exposure to diverse viewpoints. I began reading books, articles, and watching documentaries that shed light on the multifaceted nature of the Civil Rights Movement. I discovered that Malcolm X's call for self-defense and empowerment resonated with many who felt that nonviolence was insufficient in the face of brutal racism and oppression.

The outcome of my exploration was transformative. I not only broadened my understanding of the Civil Rights Movement but also gained a deeper appreciation for the importance of questioning and challenging one's beliefs. I learned that a willingness to confront preconceived notions and explore alternative perspectives is a powerful tool for personal growth and intellectual development.

As I continued to delve into African American history, I also recognized the importance of advocating for diversity and inclusivity in our educational curricula. I realized that my initial ignorance about the diversity of perspectives within the Civil Rights Movement was a result of a lack of representation and exposure to various voices.

This experience has left an indelible mark on my approach to learning and engaging with the world around me. It has taught me that questioning and challenging beliefs is not a sign of weakness but rather a testament to one's commitment to personal growth and a deeper understanding of the complexities of our society. It has also motivated me to advocate for a more inclusive and diverse education system, where students can explore a wide range of perspectives and be encouraged to think critically.

College Essay Examples: Common App Prompt #4

Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?

One winter evening, as the icy wind howled outside, I found myself in a tough spot. My car had decided to break down in the middle of nowhere, leaving me stranded on a desolate stretch of highway. My phone battery was running low, and panic began to set in. That's when the unexpected happened, changing my perspective on kindness and gratitude forever.

I was lucky enough to have a close friend named Sarah, who lived nearby. I reached out to her, hoping she might be able to offer some advice or perhaps a ride. Without hesitation, Sarah jumped into her own car, braving the cold and treacherous roads to reach me. Her act of kindness was surprising and heartwarming, but it was what followed that truly left me thankful in an unexpected way.

As Sarah arrived at the scene, she greeted me with a warm smile and a reassuring hug. She not only offered me a ride home but also insisted on waiting with me until the tow truck arrived, ensuring I wouldn't be alone in the freezing darkness. It was during those moments of vulnerability, waiting together in the biting cold, that I realized the depth of Sarah's friendship and her unwavering support.

When the tow truck finally arrived, and my car was safely loaded onto its bed, I couldn't help but express my gratitude to Sarah for her incredible act of kindness. Her response, however, took me by surprise. She simply shrugged it off, saying, "That's what friends are for."

Sarah's humble and selfless attitude left a lasting impression on me. It made me realize that genuine acts of kindness often come from the heart, without expecting anything in return. It was a stark reminder of the importance of surrounding oneself with people who uplift and support, especially during challenging times.

The gratitude I felt that night didn't just fade away. It motivated me to pay forward the kindness I had received. I became more conscious of the opportunities to help others, whether it was offering a ride to a friend in need, volunteering at a local shelter, or simply being a better listener and friend.

Sarah's unexpected act of kindness not only warmed my heart that freezing night but also ignited a chain reaction of goodwill in my own life. It taught me the immeasurable value of selfless gestures and how they can inspire others to do the same.

In the end, I learned that gratitude is a powerful force that can motivate us to become better versions of ourselves. It encourages us to be more compassionate, empathetic, and willing to extend a helping hand to those in need. Sarah's kindness not only rescued me from a cold, dark night but also illuminated the path to a brighter and more compassionate future, where gratitude and kindness go hand in hand.

College Essay Examples: Common App Prompt #5

Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

One sunny summer morning, I found myself standing at the entrance of a bustling orphanage in Nairobi, Kenya. I had embarked on a volunteer trip with a group of compassionate individuals, eager to make a difference in the lives of orphaned children. Little did I know that this journey would lead to a profound period of personal growth and a new understanding of both myself and the incredible resilience of these young souls.

As I stepped inside the orphanage, I was immediately greeted by a sea of curious faces, filled with hope and curiosity. These children had faced unimaginable hardships, having lost their parents to disease, poverty, or violence. Yet, their smiles were infectious, radiating a sense of optimism that defied their circumstances.

One particular child who captured my heart was a young boy named Samuel. He was around eight years old, with bright eyes and an indomitable spirit. Samuel had experienced more hardship in his short life than I could fathom, yet he exuded a warmth and enthusiasm that was truly inspiring.

Over the course of my time at the orphanage, I had the privilege of getting to know Samuel better. Despite the language barrier, our connection transcended words. We played soccer together, shared meals, and laughed as if we had known each other for a lifetime. Through these interactions, I began to realize that while our life experiences differed drastically, our shared humanity bound us together.

One evening, as Samuel and I sat under the starry African sky, he began to share his story. His father had passed away from a debilitating illness, leaving his mother to care for him and his siblings. Tragically, she too succumbed to illness, leaving Samuel and his siblings orphaned and alone. His resilience in the face of such adversity left me in awe.

This profound encounter with Samuel ignited a period of personal growth and self-discovery within me. I began to question the privileges I had taken for granted in my own life and the significance of the connections we forge with others. I learned that genuine empathy and compassion have the power to transcend boundaries and bridge the gap between seemingly disparate worlds.

Returning home from Kenya, I carried Samuel's spirit with me. The experience had sparked a newfound understanding of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of empathy in fostering connections. I became more involved in humanitarian efforts, raising awareness and funds for organizations supporting orphaned children in Africa.

The realization that our shared humanity unites us all, regardless of our backgrounds or circumstances, has profoundly shaped my outlook on life. Samuel, with his infectious smile and unwavering optimism, taught me that personal growth often begins when we step out of our comfort zones and embrace the experiences and stories of others.

College Essay Examples: Common App Prompt #6

Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

Sample Essay

When I dive into the world of astrophysics, I lose myself in the exploration of celestial phenomena, from the formation of galaxies to the birth and death of stars. I often find myself engrossed in thought experiments, pondering questions like the nature of dark matter and the possibility of extraterrestrial life. These musings can consume my hours, and I forget the world around me.

To satiate my thirst for knowledge in this field, I turn to various sources. Books by scientists like Stephen Hawking and Carl Sagan provide in-depth insights into the wonders of the cosmos. Online courses and lectures by astrophysicists and astronomers are invaluable resources, allowing me to delve deeper into specific topics.

Additionally, I seek out discussions and forums where I can engage with like-minded individuals who share my passion for astrophysics. The exchange of ideas and the opportunity to learn from others with diverse perspectives enriches my understanding and keeps my curiosity alive. I remember the first time I delved into astrophysics.

It was during my sophomore year when I stumbled upon a documentary series hosted by the renowned astrophysicist, Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson. His ability to communicate complex concepts with such enthusiasm and clarity ignited my curiosity. I found myself captivated by the idea that our universe is a vast, ever-expanding cosmos filled with countless galaxies, stars, and planets.

What fascinates me most about astrophysics is the way it challenges our understanding of reality. Concepts like time dilation, wormholes, and the multiverse stretch the limits of human comprehension. The realization that we are part of a universe that is both awe-inspiring and enigmatic is both humbling and exhilarating.

College Essay Examples: Common App Prompt #7

Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

As a recent high school graduate, I've been thinking a lot about the journey that got me here. And when I look back, there's one experience that stands out as a turning point in my life – my summer volunteering trip to Costa Rica.

It all started when my best friend, Emily, and I decided to do something meaningful before heading off to college. We stumbled upon a volunteer program that involved working with a sea turtle conservation project in Costa Rica. It sounded like the adventure of a lifetime, so we signed up without a second thought.

The first few days in Costa Rica were a whirlwind of excitement and culture shock. We found ourselves in a small coastal village with dirt roads, rustic huts, and a vibrant community. Our project involved night patrols on the beach, protecting turtle nests from poachers and monitoring their hatching. It was physically demanding and required us to adapt to a completely new environment.

But as the days turned into weeks, something remarkable happened. We became deeply connected to the local community and the incredible creatures we were working to protect. We witnessed tiny baby sea turtles making their way to the ocean, guided by the moonlight, and we saw the dedication of the local conservationists who were fighting to preserve their habitat.

I remember one night when we encountered a massive leatherback sea turtle coming ashore to lay her eggs. It was a majestic and humbling sight. As we watched her, I couldn't help but feel a profound sense of responsibility toward these creatures and the environment they depended on.

Our time in Costa Rica wasn't just about volunteering; it was a transformative experience that opened our eyes to the beauty of nature and the importance of conservation. We learned about the delicate balance of ecosystems and the impact of human activities on wildlife.

Leaving Costa Rica, Emily and I felt like different people. We had gained a deeper appreciation for the natural world and a sense of purpose in protecting it. It was an experience that not only shaped our values but also influenced our college choices and career aspirations.

In hindsight, that summer in Costa Rica was more than just a volunteering trip; it was a journey of self-discovery and a reminder of the profound impact we can have when we come together to protect the planet. It's a memory I'll carry with me as I embark on the next chapter of my life, knowing that even as a recent high school graduate, I can make a difference in the world.

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