Writing a college application essay can be a difficult and intimidating endeavor. With limited word counts, strict prompts, and high expectations to create a stand-out composition that accurately portrays you for admissions officers and other school representatives, it can take a lot of work to know where to begin!
That’s why we have the perfect solution for you. Let’s explore our Common App essay examples. These will help you make college admissions stand out and show off your unique skills and experiences.
What is a common app essay?
The Common App essay is a personal statement and your primary writing sample that is a part of the Common Application, an online application platform used by over 900 colleges, universities, and colleges across the US.
It is a crucial component of the college application process, as each institution that accepts the Common App will assess your essay to gain insights into your character, background, and potential value as a student.
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This is your opportunity to make a compelling personal statement to admissions officers at schools that use the Common App. When you log into your Common App account and navigate to the "Writing" section, you'll be presented with a list of seven essay prompts and detailed directions for completing each. One of the seven popular app essay prompts requires you to write college essays between 250 and 650 words long.
This statement is intended to assist you in identifying your strengths, interests, and experiences. If your topic addresses the prompt, you can talk about almost anything. It is also open in terms of style and storyline.
Keep in mind that some institutions may require additional essays along with the Common App essay, so be sure to review the specific requirements for each school you're applying to.
What are some common app essay examples?
Video: Stanford Students Reveal What They Wrote Their Common App Essays About | Open Up
The process of writing your college essays can be challenging. Luckily, many college admissions essay examples will help inspire your work and give you confidence as you enter the next step in your educational journey.
The “Why Us” App Essay
This essay asks students to explain why they are interested in attending a specific university or college. Through this essay, students can highlight their unique qualities and explain why they would be a good fit for the school they are applying to.
Sample #1
Sample Answer from AFSA by Francesca Kelly: “I did everything I was supposed to do. I planted long, sinewy aquarium plants. I obsessively checked the temperature and the pH of the water. I created small refuges by piling rocks in the corner of the tank so that crevices formed. Yet, for three years, I was left disappointed. Now, just this week, my hard work paid off: my pair of firemouth cichlids produced fry, filling my aquarium with dozens of tiny slivers darting here and there. This, my first successful attempt at creating the conditions necessary for spawning, marks the highlight of my years as a tropical fish hobbyist.
When I read that Wonderful College’s marine biology program includes an aquarium management minor, I jumped up from my desk with excitement. My interest in ichthyology extends from the theoretical and research components to the practical: I love maintaining aquariums. I will enthusiastically register for Wonderful College’s classes “Brackish Water Species” and “Rescuing Our Coral Reefs.” I have already read Professor Anthony Pescatore’s book, The Fish Hobbyist’s Bible, and I look forward to taking part in his aquarium club. I’m also excited about field trips to the John D. Pickering Aquarium downtown.”
In addition, I hope to take advantage of the marine biology study abroad program to Sumatra where I can observe unique species found nowhere else. For these reasons and many others, I’m certain Wonderful College is the optimal place to continue expanding my knowledge in the field of marine biology and ichthyology.”
Why This Essay Works?
This essay effectively connects the student's passion for tropical fish and aquarium management with specific offerings at Wonderful College. The vivid opening anecdote showcases the student's long-term commitment and recent success in breeding firemouth cichlids, grabbing the reader's attention and setting the stage for their enthusiasm for the college's marine biology program.
The essay seamlessly transitions into discussing specific courses, professors, extracurricular opportunities, and study abroad programs that align with the student's interests. By demonstrating a thorough understanding of the university's offerings and expressing genuine excitement for participating in them, the student crafts a compelling narrative that highlights their fit with Wonderful College.
Prospective students can learn from this example by showcasing their passions, researching specific offerings at their target universities, and clearly connecting their interests with the available opportunities.
Sample #2
Sample Answer from "Sustainable Future" by Liam Nguyen: "As a passionate environmentalist, I have always been drawn to the idea of sustainable living and the protection of our planet's resources. When I discovered that Greenville University offers a unique program in Environmental Studies with a focus on urban sustainability, I knew it was the perfect fit for me.
Greenville's commitment to creating a greener future aligns perfectly with my own values and aspirations. The opportunity to learn from renowned faculty members such as Professor Samantha Torres, whose groundbreaking research on urban ecology has been published in numerous journals, would be an incredible honor.
Additionally, the university's partnerships with local environmental organizations and its dedication to community outreach demonstrate a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the world. I am excited about the prospect of contributing to this mission while developing the skills and knowledge necessary to become a leader in the field of sustainable urban development."
Why This Essay Works?
This essay effectively demonstrates the student's passion for environmentalism and sustainable living, while also showcasing their knowledge of Greenville University's specific programs and initiatives. By mentioning a specific faculty member and her research, the student displays a genuine interest in the university and its academic offerings.
Additionally, the essay highlights the student's alignment with the university's values and their desire to contribute to its mission of creating a greener future. Prospective students can learn from this example by conducting thorough research on their target universities, identifying specific programs, faculty, and initiatives that align with their interests and goals, and demonstrating how they plan to contribute to the university's community and mission.
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The “Diversity” App Essay
A college or university asks students to elaborate on how they plan to contribute to diversity in their student body. Students are encouraged to share their experiences and cultural backgrounds through this essay.
Sample #1
Sample Answer from Scribbed by Kirsten Courault: “The smell of the early morning dew and the welcoming whinnies of my family’s horses are some of my most treasured childhood memories. To this day, our farm remains so rural that we do not have broadband access, and we’re too far away from the closest town for the postal service to reach us.
Going to school regularly was always a struggle: between the unceasing demands of the farm and our lack of connectivity, it was hard to keep up with my studies. Despite being a voracious reader, avid amateur chemist, and active participant in the classroom, emergencies and unforeseen events at the farm meant that I had a lot of unexcused absences.
Although it had challenges, my upbringing taught me resilience, the value of hard work, and the importance of family. Staying up all night to watch a foal being born, successfully saving the animals from a minor fire, and finding ways to soothe a nervous mare afraid of thunder have led to an unbreakable family bond.
Our farm is my family’s birthright and our livelihood, and I am eager to learn how to ensure the farm’s financial and technological success for future generations. In college, I am looking forward to joining a chapter of Future Farmers of America and studying agricultural business to carry my family’s legacy forward.”
Why This Essay Works?
This essay effectively showcases the student's unique background and how it has shaped their values, character, and future aspirations. By vividly describing life on a rural farm, the student demonstrates their resilience, passion for learning, and strong work ethic in the face of challenges such as limited access to broadband and difficulties attending school regularly.
The specific examples of staying up all night to watch a foal being born and saving animals from a fire illustrate the valuable life lessons they have learned and the strong family bonds they have formed.
Moreover, the student effectively connects their background and values to their future goals, expressing a desire to study agricultural business and join the Future Farmers of America organization. This demonstrates a clear sense of purpose and a commitment to using their education to ensure the success and continuity of their family's farm.
Prospective students can learn from this example by reflecting on how their unique experiences have shaped their character, values, and aspirations, and by connecting their background to their future goals to craft compelling essays that showcase their diversity and potential to contribute to the college community.
Sample #2
Sample Answer from "Embracing Diversity" by Aaliyah Patel: "Growing up as a first-generation Indian-American, I often found myself navigating between two distinct cultures. At home, I was immersed in the vibrant traditions, languages, and customs of my parents' homeland, while at school, I sought to fit in with my peers and embrace the American way of life. This constant balancing act was not always easy, but it taught me the value of diversity and the importance of embracing one's unique identity.
As I grew older, I began to appreciate the richness that my multicultural background brought to my life. I realized that my experiences and perspective could contribute to a more inclusive and understanding society. This realization inspired me to become actively involved in my high school's Diversity Club, where I worked with students from various backgrounds to promote cultural awareness and celebrate our differences.
One of the most impactful initiatives I led was organizing a school-wide Diversity Day, which featured performances, workshops, and discussions aimed at fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the diverse tapestry of our student body. Seeing the positive response from my classmates and teachers reinforced my belief in the power of embracing diversity and creating spaces where everyone feels valued and respected.
I am excited to continue my journey of promoting diversity and inclusion at Columbia University. With its vibrant multicultural community and commitment to social justice, Columbia offers the perfect environment for me to grow as a leader and advocate for positive change.
I look forward to contributing my unique perspective and experiences to the campus community while learning from and collaborating with students from all walks of life. Together, I believe we can work towards building a more inclusive and equitable world."
Why This Essay Works
This essay powerfully illustrates the student's personal growth and commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion. By sharing her experience as a first-generation Indian-American navigating between two cultures, Aaliyah demonstrates how her unique background has shaped her values and perspective. Her story resonates with admissions officers looking for students who can contribute to a diverse campus community.
Moreover, the essay highlights Aaliyah's leadership skills and initiative in organizing a school-wide Diversity Day event. This concrete example showcases her ability to turn her passion for diversity into meaningful action that positively impacts her community. By expressing her excitement to continue this work at Columbia University, Aaliyah demonstrates her potential to contribute to the university's vibrant multicultural community and commitment to social justice.
Prospective students can learn from this example by reflecting on their own experiences with diversity, highlighting their leadership roles in promoting inclusion, and connecting their passion to their target university's values and community.
Video: how to write your ENTIRE common app essay (step by step guide)
The "Challenges" App Essay
The “challenges” common app essay example asks students to explain a challenge they have faced, how they overcame it, and how they applied what they learned to their daily lives. Students can share their personal stories and illustrate their resilience through this essay.
Sample #1
Sample Answer from Essaymaster by Esme: “Ten minutes before my orchestra and I were due to perform what would be my first symphony, our conductor called us into the wings of the stage for a pep talk. He told us how hard we had all worked, and I could tell that he was struggling to say something that would truly inspire a group of excited twelve and thirteen year olds. After about six minutes of clichés, he looked at his watch and hurriedly delivered his closing line: “One day, you’ll reach a point where you don’t get nervous anymore.”
A point where you don’t get nervous anymore.
That night, I embarked on a mission to find that point. I’ve performed at concert halls, churches, and venues all over the U.K. I’ve played as a soloist and as part of an ensemble to packed audiences. I’ve auditioned for seats in orchestras and for conservatories. I’ve performed at examinations on three different instruments. And yet, this point eludes me, the point at which I no longer feel my own anxiety, worries, and doubts about the performance I am about to give. I have yet to reach this magical and amazing place. And recently, I decided to stop looking.
I gave up my quest for this “point” during a concert with my orchestra. We were performing a piece by Debussy, one I had fallen in love with as soon as I played it. I was the first-chair oboist, and toward the end of the piece is an oboe solo; completely exposed, extremely difficult to play, and powerful enough to render the entire performance either incredible or mediocre. Needless to say, I was so nervous that I was sure that members of the audience could hear my frantic breathing onstage as we drew closer to the solo, measure by measure. As I took a breath to begin playing, I closed my eyes and thought of all hours I had practiced, all tiny details I needed to remember while playing, all of the amazing performances I had heard. I thought of how transcendent and haunting I wanted it to sound, how I wanted every member of the audience to freeze and just listen. And I played it. Every note sounded exactly as I imagined it, and every pitch released another burst of adrenaline in my body. As the solo came to a close, the entire orchestra launched into the finale, filling the concert hall with a sound so rich and powerful I felt that I was going to burst. As I sustained the last note of the piece with the 80 other musicians on stage, I thought, “Why would you ever want to reach a point without nerves, when overcoming nervousness delivers so much?”
I stopped looking for a place without anxiety because I realized that this “point” was really just code for a place of apathy. I thought I was looking for a state of being in which I would be entirely professional and calm, but I discovered that it is the on-edge feelings and challenges that sharpen me and make my performance worthwhile, and the wide range of emotions that make a performance incredible. I am convinced that this is true of life in general, and whether I’m swimming in a race, completely in tune with my environment, taking a test where I feel confident and prepared, or playing my instruments in performance; I never forget that I am in a race, an exam, or a performance, and the result reflects hours of preparation and hard work. In music and in life it is important to recognize and remember that while a place of serenity and competence seems appealing, to reach it would render every aspect of life mundane, numb, and ordinary. By contrast, pushing oneself to do better, to play better, to be better makes hard-earned accomplishments and experiences memorable. And if the price for excellence is a little anxiety, I am more than willing to pay it.”
Why This Essay Works
This essay is a powerful reflection on the student's journey to understand the role of anxiety and nervousness in their musical performances. The vivid opening anecdote sets the stage for the student's quest to find a point where they no longer feel nervous, and the series of specific examples demonstrates their dedication to their craft.
The turning point comes during a solo performance of a piece by Debussy, where the student realizes that embracing nerves and challenges is what makes a performance truly remarkable. By extending this insight to life in general and concluding that a little anxiety is a price worth paying for excellence, the student demonstrates a mature and introspective perspective on personal growth and achievement.
The essay's structure effectively conveys the student's journey of self-discovery, and its introspective and honest tone serves as a model for how students can convey their unique voice and personality through their writing. Prospective students can learn from this example by reflecting on their own experiences with challenges and personal growth, using specific anecdotes to illustrate their insights, and connecting their realizations to a broader perspective on life and success.
Sample #2
Sample Answer from "Overcoming Adversity" by Marcus Thompson: "As I stood at the starting line of my first cross-country race, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. I had trained hard for this moment, pushing myself to run faster and longer distances than I ever had before. However, as the race began and I settled into my pace, I suddenly felt a sharp pain in my right knee. Every step became increasingly painful, but I was determined to finish the race.
Crossing the finish line was a bittersweet moment. I was proud of my accomplishment but knew that something was wrong with my knee. After visiting a doctor, I received the devastating news that I had a torn meniscus and would need surgery. The recovery process was long and challenging, filled with physical therapy sessions and the frustration of not being able to run.
Despite the setback, I refused to let this injury define me. I channeled my energy into my studies and discovered a new passion for writing. I joined the school newspaper and poured my heart into every article, finding joy in sharing stories and perspectives with my peers. Through this experience, I learned that challenges can often lead to unexpected opportunities for growth and self-discovery.
As my knee healed and I gradually returned to running, I approached the sport with a new mindset. I no longer focused solely on competition but rather on the joy of pushing myself to be the best version of myself. I learned to listen to my body, to rest when needed, and to celebrate every small victory along the way.
Overcoming this challenge taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of maintaining a positive outlook in the face of adversity. These lessons have served me well not only in running but in all aspects of my life, and I know they will continue to guide me as I pursue my future goals."
Why This Essay Works
This essay effectively demonstrates the student's ability to overcome adversity and find personal growth in the face of a challenging situation. The vivid opening immediately engages the reader, and the honest reflection on the difficulties of the recovery process showcases the student's vulnerability and resilience.
By highlighting their adaptability and positive outlook in channeling energy into a new passion for writing, the student demonstrates maturity and a growth mindset. The student's shift in perspective towards running, focusing on personal growth and listening to their body, exhibits a healthy approach to overcoming challenges.
The essay concludes by emphasizing the broader impact of the lessons learned, showing how the student's personal growth has prepared them for future challenges. Prospective students can learn from this example by reflecting on their own experiences with overcoming adversity, highlighting the personal growth and insights gained, and demonstrating how these lessons have shaped their character and goals.
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The “Community” App Essay
In the essay portion of the application, students are asked to share how they have made a difference in their community, whether through volunteer work, mentoring, or other activities. For this essay, students will be able to display their leadership qualities and commitment to service to others.
Sample #1
Sample Answer from Baylor University: “Since getting involved in helping the homeless, I learned that for a time one of my relatives was homeless. When you have a house it’s easy to take it for granted, but all it takes is some bad luck for you to lose it. This is why I feel it’s so important that we all try to help those who have no home to go to.
As hard as it was to motivate others to volunteer and help out with our fundraiser, it was worth it in the end. We raised over $1,000 for the hurricane victims. Now when we see news coverage of that terrible disaster at least we know that we have done our small part to help.
The reward for being a coach has nothing to do with winning games. The reward is seeing everyone working as a team and enjoying the game. Win or lose, as coach you’re always proud after each game.”
Why this essay works
This essay effectively showcases the student's commitment to serving their community and the personal growth they experienced through their involvement. By sharing the revelation that a relative was homeless, the student demonstrates empathy and a deeper understanding of the importance of helping others.
The essay also highlights the student's leadership skills and determination in organizing a fundraiser for hurricane victims, despite the challenges faced in motivating others to volunteer. Furthermore, the student's reflection on the rewards of being a coach emphasizes the value they place on teamwork and the joy of the game, rather than solely focusing on winning.
This insight demonstrates maturity and a strong sense of character. Prospective students can learn from this example by reflecting on their own experiences in serving their community, highlighting the personal growth and lessons learned, and showcasing their leadership skills and values.
Sample #2
Sample Answer from "ServingCommunity" by Emily Nguyen: "Growing up in a tight-knit Vietnamese community, I witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by many immigrant families. Language barriers, cultural differences, and limited access to resources often hindered their ability to thrive in their new home. Recognizing the need for support, I decided to take action and co-founded a volunteer organization dedicated to assisting immigrant families in my community.
Our organization, "Bridging Cultures," focuses on providing English language classes, cultural orientation workshops, and mentoring programs to help immigrant families navigate their new environment. As a co-founder and lead volunteer, I have had the privilege of working directly with families, understanding their unique needs, and tailoring our programs to best support them.
One of the most rewarding experiences has been witnessing the progress and empowerment of the families we serve. I remember working with a single mother who had recently arrived from Vietnam with her two young children. When we first met, she was struggling to communicate in English and felt overwhelmed by the challenges of adapting to a new culture. Over the course of several months, I worked closely with her, teaching her English, helping her navigate the school system, and connecting her with local resources. Seeing her confidence grow and her children thrive in school has been an incredible joy and reinforces the importance of the work we do.
Through my involvement with "Bridging Cultures," I have gained a deeper appreciation for the resilience and strength of immigrant families. I have learned the value of compassion, patience, and the power of community in effecting positive change. As I look to the future, I am committed to continuing my work with immigrant communities and advocating for policies that promote inclusivity and equality. My experiences have shaped my desire to pursue a career in social work, where I can continue to make a difference in the lives of others and contribute to building a more just and equitable society."
Why This Essay Works
This essay effectively demonstrates the student's deep commitment to serving their community and the significant impact they have made through their volunteer work. The student's leadership and initiative are evident through the co-founding of "Bridging Cultures" and their hands-on involvement in providing support to immigrant families.
The specific example of working with a single mother and her children showcases the student's dedication, compassion, and the tangible difference they have made in the lives of others. Moreover, the essay highlights the student's personal growth, the valuable lessons they have learned, and their strong sense of social responsibility.
By connecting their experiences to their future goals and aspirations in social work, the student demonstrates a clear sense of purpose and direction, making the essay compelling and memorable. Prospective students can learn from this example by reflecting on their own community service experiences, providing specific examples of their impact, discussing personal growth and lessons learned, and connecting these experiences to their future goals.
The "Extra-Curricular Activities" App Essay
Students are asked to discuss their involvement in extracurricular activities outside of school and how they have helped them develop as a person in the “extra-curricular activities” common app essay example. As part of this essay, students showcase their interests and talents outside of academics.
Sample #1
Sample Answers from Prompt by Brad Schiller: “I couldn’t believe it. My soccer team was discussing whether or not to schedule an extra practice during the upcoming long weekend. “Of course, yes,” I was thinking. But, shockingly, the room was not with me. A quick consensus formed around no added practice. It was my tipping point — I finally saw that I needed to convey to this team that settling for mediocre was not an option, and that none of us would regret doing what it takes to win.”
Why This Essay Works
This essay effectively showcases the student's leadership skills and their unwavering commitment to excellence. The opening anecdote immediately draws the reader in, presenting a relatable situation that highlights the student's unique perspective and drive. By expressing their disbelief at the team's decision and their realization that they needed to take action, the student demonstrates a strong sense of initiative and a willingness to challenge the status quo.
The essay's concise and powerful language conveys the student's passion and determination to inspire their team to strive for greatness. The concluding statement, emphasizing that "none of us would regret doing what it takes to win," underscores the student's leadership abilities and their belief in the importance of hard work and dedication.
Prospective students can learn from this example by reflecting on moments when they have taken initiative, showcased leadership, and promoted a strong work ethic within a team or group setting. By crafting a compelling narrative that highlights these qualities, students can effectively demonstrate their potential to contribute to their chosen college community.
Sample #2
Sample Answer from "Debate and Leadership" by Rashid Patel: "As I stepped up to the podium, my heart raced with a mix of excitement and nervousness. It was the final round of the state debate championship, and I was representing my high school in the most important debate of my career thus far. Months of research, preparation, and practice had led to this moment, and I was determined to make my team and school proud.
Debate has been an integral part of my high school experience, not only shaping my academic and intellectual growth but also fostering my leadership skills. As team captain, I've had the privilege of guiding and mentoring younger students, helping them develop their public speaking abilities and critical thinking skills. Seeing their confidence grow as they learned to construct compelling arguments and articulate their thoughts clearly has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my involvement in debate.
Beyond the debate room, I've sought to apply the lessons learned through debate to other areas of my life. As student body president, I've utilized the communication and problem-solving skills honed through debate to bridge gaps between students and administration, advocating for changes that improve the overall school experience for my peers. From successfully lobbying for healthier cafeteria options to organizing school-wide events that promote inclusivity and school spirit, I've seen firsthand the power of effective communication and leadership in driving positive change.
As I reflect on my high school journey, I am grateful for the opportunities debate has provided me to grow as a student, leader, and individual. The skills I have developed – the ability to think critically, communicate persuasively, and lead with empathy and understanding – are invaluable assets that I will carry with me throughout college and beyond. I am excited to continue exploring new avenues for growth and leadership in the future, knowing that the foundation built through debate will serve me well in any path I choose to pursue."
Why This Essay Works
This essay effectively highlights the student's dedication to debate and the significant impact it has had on their personal and academic growth. By opening with a vivid description of the state debate championship, the student immediately engages the reader and sets the stage for discussing their passion for debate. The essay emphasizes the student's leadership role as team captain and their commitment to mentoring younger students, demonstrating their ability to guide and inspire others.
Moreover, the student effectively connects the skills gained through debate to their leadership roles outside the debate room. By discussing their achievements as student body president, the student showcases their ability to apply the lessons learned through debate to effect positive change in their school community.
The essay concludes by reflecting on the enduring value of the skills developed through debate, demonstrating the student's self-awareness and forward-thinking perspective. Prospective students can learn from this example by highlighting their own extra-curricular passions, discussing the transferable skills gained, and reflecting on how these experiences have shaped their personal growth and future goals.
The "Personal Statement" App Essay
This is your chance to explain yourself to admissions officers and tell them more about who you are, not just what you’re studying. This type of essay allows you to discuss anything you think will help admissions officers understand you, whether it’s your background, family, hobbies, interests, achievements, or goals.
Sample Answer from Tufts University by Kaycee Conover: “On one hot night in a dark room at the heart of Boston, I became friends with 19,580 people in one single moment. We had all journeyed to the TD Garden from wherever we were in our lives to see Tom Petty perform. I knew his music because my mother had shared it with me. It meant something to her and it meant something to me. His music meant something different to every person in that room and all those meanings, all infinite number of them, wrapped around the music notes and existed in harmony on that July night. I had to close my eyes. It was as if I could hear the heartbeats of every person in that room, pulsing along with the rhythm of the music. By sharing his music, Tom Petty gave me a striking awareness of 19,580 people that live and feel alongside each other. Tom Petty will live as long as people feel.
Lights flashing beyond my eyelids, I could feel what it was like to live more lives than just my own. Tom Petty’s art described his life, but it has weaved its way into those of so many others. My own, my mother’s then and when she was my age, and all the strangers around me who didn’t seem so strange anymore. We all have to go through our own lives and our own challenges, but just because we have our own lessons to learn doesn’t mean we are alone. I looked into the smiles of the crowd, the dancing arms and carefree yes, and realised we were all feeling something of our own. But we were feeling it all together.
With the shared heart of others, I can travel vertically through time and horizontally through space. I long to make connections and there are no boundaries that limit how this can be done, not even time and not even space. Imagine trying to count how many people have ever been inspired by the Beatles! Music is an honesty that you embrace more than escape. I sit in front of my piano for hours, copying the rhythm of until it feels right. I’ll never tire of hearing another tell me how they’re feeling without using any words at all and letting it become part of me. You can’t hide from your feelings when someone else is telling them to you.
And so I have become a curator of feeling. I am always listening, collecting the art of others. I have stared at paintings until they stared back at me. I cry while I watch almost every film, sometimes just because the characters are nice to each other. I’m as moved by the narrative of my old American Girl Doll books as I am by Dickens. It’s all swirls of feelings, of lessons from others that mirror those you need to learn yourself. Art embodies empathy and empathy has become too easy to lose touch with. Art is the same world seen from a different heart. I look at characters or creators and think, “How did you become the way you are?” I can look at others and think the same thing. And I have the chance the ask them.
Tom Petty did not write “Breakdown” just for me. Hard Promises comforts more than just me. I cannot live life from just my own perspective. Art exists in everyone. I embrace my hour-long commute to school as a chance to start conversations through the life that flows from my speakers, using old tunes to understand the world through my neighbors as we talk of our favourite colours or the abstract nature of time. My dad doesn’t seem so distant when we talk about our mutual love for The Band. This is how our moments are made. This is how we find the music that surrounds all of us, all in each other.”
Why This Essay Works
This essay is a masterful example of how a personal experience can be transformed into a profound reflection on the human condition. The writer's vivid description of the shared experience at the Tom Petty concert immediately draws the reader in, creating a sense of unity and shared emotion. The essay then delves into the power of music and art to connect people across time and space, transcending personal boundaries and experiences.
The writer's introspective and philosophical approach to the topic demonstrates a mature and insightful perspective on the role of art in fostering empathy and understanding. By reflecting on how art allows them to "travel vertically through time and horizontally through space," the writer showcases their ability to think deeply and abstractly about the world around them. The essay's poetic language and metaphorical imagery create a rich and engaging narrative that leaves a lasting impact on the reader.
Prospective students can learn from this example by reflecting on their own personal experiences with art, music, or literature, and exploring how these experiences have shaped their worldview and connected them with others. By crafting a reflective and insightful essay that showcases their unique perspective, students can stand out in the admissions process and demonstrate their potential to contribute to the intellectual and cultural community of their chosen college.
Sample #2
Sample Answer from "The Power of Storytelling" by Maria Rodriguez: "Growing up, I was the child who always had her nose buried in a book. From the moment I learned to read, I discovered the magic of storytelling and the power of words to transport me to different worlds, lives, and experiences. As I devoured book after book, I began to realize that stories were more than just entertainment; they were a way to understand the world and my place in it.
In high school, my love for stories led me to join the theater club, where I discovered the joy of bringing characters to life on stage. As I stepped into the shoes of different characters, from the tragic heroine of a Shakespearean play to the quirky lead in a modern comedy, I found myself developing a deeper sense of empathy and understanding for perspectives different from my own. Through theater, I learned the importance of active listening, collaboration, and the power of storytelling to create meaningful connections with others.
This realization inspired me to start a storytelling club at my local community center, where I worked with children from diverse backgrounds to help them develop their own voices and share their unique stories. Each week, as I watched these young storytellers grow in confidence and creativity, I was reminded of the transformative power of stories to empower individuals and build communities.
As I look to the future, I am excited to continue exploring the art of storytelling in all its forms – from literature and theater to film and beyond. I believe that stories have the power to bridge divides, promote understanding, and inspire change. In college, I hope to study comparative literature and theater, delving deeper into the ways in which stories shape our understanding of the world and our place in it. Ultimately, my goal is to use my love for storytelling to make a positive impact on the world, one story at a time."
Why This Essay Works
This essay effectively demonstrates the writer's passion for storytelling and its impact on their personal growth and aspirations. By beginning with a simple yet relatable anecdote about their childhood love for reading, the writer immediately establishes a connection with the reader.
The essay then seamlessly transitions into the writer's experiences in theater, highlighting how stepping into different characters' shoes has deepened their empathy and understanding of diverse perspectives.
Moreover, the writer's initiative in starting a storytelling club showcases their leadership skills and commitment to using their passion for storytelling to make a positive difference in their community. By sharing the impact of this experience on the young storytellers they worked with, the writer demonstrates the transformative power of stories to empower individuals and build connections.
The essay concludes with a clear vision for the future, outlining the writer's academic and personal goals related to storytelling. By expressing their desire to study comparative literature and theater and use their skills to make a positive impact on the world, the writer demonstrates a sense of purpose and motivation that is likely to resonate with admissions officers.
Prospective students can learn from this example by reflecting on their own passions and experiences, and how they have used them to make a difference in their communities or to develop a clearer sense of purpose for the future.
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Video: 5 College Essay Topics to Avoid (And What to Write About Instead)
Writing a college application essay can be difficult. You want to stand out from the crowd but need to know where or how to get started.
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Additional Resources
Need more essay ideas and topics? Check out our Top 40 College Essay Ideas and Topics.
Or if you’re looking for guidance on your college essay, our 12 Tips for Finding the Best College Essay Coach (2024) will help you find the perfect mentor to guide you through the writing process.
And for those seeking comprehensive assistance with their entire college application, don't miss our College Application Help: 15 Tips to Help You Succeed, which covers everything from essays to interviews and beyond.
