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College Essay Examples from Top Universities 2023

As you embark on your college application journey, the essay stands out as one of the most crucial components. These essays provide a window into your personality, experiences, and values, something that grades and scores cannot convey. Especially when it comes to the essays written for the common app college application, it's vital to understand the nuances and techniques that make an 25 Most Popular Marketing Essay Topics in 2020-2021... stand out. This guide will showcase college essay examples from top universities, tips on constructing a compelling narrative, and ways to ensure your essay resonates with the admissions committee.

College Essay Tips

First and foremost, you should aim to be genuine in your essays. The person reading your essay will feel the authenticity. The best college essay examples often tell a story that is personal and reflective. They may describe a moment when you questioned or challenged a belief, or they might share an experience that molded your character. Remember, colleges are not just looking for students with top grades but individuals who can contribute positively to their community. Your essay is your chance to show them who you are beyond the numbers.

Learn How to Write Your College Essay

To excel in writing your essay, it's essential to consider the narrative flow. Reflect on a time when you faced a challenge or when you learned something new about yourself. These stories offer depth and give the reader insights into your growth and maturity. For instance, one might detail a summer they spent at their grandmother's and the lessons they learned, like when to give advice and when to simply listen. Or perhaps, share the journey of self-discovery when moving into a new school and the challenges and triumphs that came with it.

College Essay Example

Consider this example: In my junior year of high school, I faced one of the most challenging periods of my life. My mom was hospitalized, and I had to move into my aunt's house. It was still in the hospital when I moved into their house. During this tumultuous time, I learned how to recognize when someone needs to be left alone and when someone needs to talk. This experience taught me resilience and the value of family support.

Example College Essay Example

During my senior year, I had to write an essay for the common app college application. The prompt asked to share an essay on any topic of your choice. I chose to describe my passion for rock music, its influence on my personality, and how it shaped my worldview. Through the bands I loved and concerts I attended, I detailed my growth from a timid listener to an active participant in the music community. This essay was my gateway into my dream college, showcasing my passion and the unique perspective I would bring to the college community.

Supplemental Essay Examples

Beyond the common app essays, many colleges also require supplemental essays. These essays delve deeper into specific aspects or unique characteristics of a particular institution. For instance, one might be asked to discuss a favorite book or the values that they align with a college's mission statement.

UChicago Supplemental Essay Example

The University of Chicago is known for its unconventional essay prompts. For example, "Describe a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?" In my response, I chose to detail the time I questioned the societal norms around gender roles, influenced by my sister's decision to pursue engineering, a field predominantly occupied by men. Through her journey, I detailed my evolving perspective on gender dynamics and the importance of breaking stereotypes.

Common App Essay Prompts

Every year, the Common Application provides a list of essay prompts. It's important to choose a topic that resonates with you and allows you to showcase a unique aspect of your personality or an experience that has shaped you. From describing a problem you'd like to solve to detailing an accomplishment or event that marked your transition from childhood to adulthood, the prompts offer diverse options to reflect and present your best self.

Makes a Great College Essay

A great college essay seamlessly blends personal anecdotes with insights, reflections, and lessons learned. Whether you're discussing challenges or achievements, the essay should reflect growth and a deeper understanding of yourself or the world around you.

Student Looking for Opportunities to Receive College

Many students, especially those from underserved communities, look for opportunities to receive a college education. They often have compelling stories of perseverance, resilience, and ambition. Crafting an essay that genuinely captures these qualities can significantly boost their chances of securing admission to top-tier colleges.

Dos and Don'ts

Do: Be genuine, maintain a clear structure, and proofread multiple times. Don't: Exaggerate experiences, be too verbose, or stray from the topic.

FAQ's

1. How long should my college essay be?
It varies based on the requirements of the college you're applying to, but typically, it ranges from 250 to 650 words.

2. Can I use humor in my essay?
Yes, but use it wisely. Ensure it doesn't come off as disrespectful or in poor taste.

3. How personal can I get?
You can be very personal, but always ensure the story relates to your growth, aspirations, and how you'd fit into the college community.

Final Thoughts

Your college essay is more than just words on paper; it's a reflection of who you are, your experiences, and your aspirations. As you pen down your thoughts, remember to be genuine, reflective, and focused. The right narrative, combined with a clear structure and genuine insights, will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression. All the best as you embark on this critical phase of your academic journey!

Useful Resources: https://www.theamericanreporter.com/how-to-write-the-best-college-essay-a-step-by-step-guide/

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