Key Takeaway: The most successful college essays aren’t always about big accomplishments—they work because they’re honest, personal, and show you how to think and grow. Even everyday topics can help students get accepted into top schools when they’re written from the heart.
Choosing a college essay can be one of the hardest parts of the application process, especially as you’re trying to stand out among thousands of applicants. What should you say? How do you make it unique? Is it okay to write about something simple?
There’s no perfect formula. The best college application essays work because they reflect who you are. They highlight your growth, your curiosity, and how you think. And as these student examples show, sometimes even the most unexpected topics can lead to acceptance letters from top colleges. Here are some of the real student essays that prove a wide variety of stories and voices can lead to acceptance at top schools.
10 College Application Essays that Worked
1. Brittany’s Costco Essay
Brittany got into five IV schools and Stanford with her now-famous essay about shopping at Costco. It wasn’t really about food samples or bulk snacks—it was about how Brittany used the store to explore her curiosity. She made connections between shoppers, historical trends, and even physics. Her voice was funny, thoughtful, and clearly her own. Read her essay at the bottom of this article.
2. Ziad’s #BlackLivesMatter Essay
Stanford accepted Ziad after he answered the prompt, “What matters to you and why?” by writing #BlackLivesMatter 100 times. That’s it. He didn’t include a long explanation. Instead, the message was repeated. Check out how his bold approach made a powerful impact with the social media post featured here.
3. Jodie’s Thousand Paper Cranes
Jodie wrote about folding paper cranes. The craft taught her patience, focus, and commitment. The real strength of the essay was how she reflected on the process. Admissions officers at Johns Hopkins could tell she finishes what she starts—and cares deeply about learning. You can read her essay here.
4. Soa’s Honest Self-Reflection
Soa, who got into Harvard, didn’t pretend to be perfect. Instead, she wrote about a time she reacted to bullying. Her honesty helped admissions officers see someone growing into a stronger, more thoughtful person. That kind of self-awareness is powerful. You can find her essay here.
5. Aubrey’s Love of Books
Aubrey’s family moved a lot—six schools in total. In her essay, she wrote about how reading became her constant in a world of change. Books helped her stay grounded, think critically, and fall in love with writing. Her story showed how a quiet passion can fuel big academic dreams, making her a strong fit for Hamilton College’s English program. Find her essay here.
6. Rozanne’s Crocheting Journey
Rozanne’s first crochet project—a scarf—was a tangled mess. But she kept at it. Her essay traced how she learned from mistakes, embraced creativity, and eventually taught others. By connecting her hobby to problem solving and perseverance, Rozanne showed she had the mindset of a leader and learner, which impressed the team at Johns Hopkins. Check out her essay here.
7. Kendall’s Journey to Self-Acceptance
Kendall wrote about her hair—not just how it looked but what it meant. Her essay traced her path from damaging her curls to fit in, to learning how to care for them with pride. What began as frustration over beauty standards became a powerful act of self-discovery. Teaching herself to braid wasn’t just a skill—it was a turning point. Her story revealed strength, honesty, and a deep commitment to showing the next generation, including her younger sister, that self-love starts at the roots. You can find Kendall’s essay here.
8. Justin’s Balance of Ambidexterity and Identity
Justin’s essay explores how his ambidexterity mirrors the many roles he juggles in life. Through vivid stories, he reveals his ability to adapt and balance diverse parts of himself with humor and insight. His writing shows how he navigates the expectations and perceptions of others while staying true to who he is. Ultimately, Justin presents himself as a versatile, thoughtful individual ready to bring that same balance to college. Check out Justin’s essay here.
9. Sarah’s Hands-On Problem Solving
From sewing torn stuffed animals to fixing her family’s old truck, Sarah has always been the go-to handyman at home. Her essay traced how each challenge—whether fabric, wood, or metal taught her to think creatively, take initiative, and keep learning. She showed how curiosity and problem-solving can be just as powerful as academic achievements in shaping who you are. You can read her essay here.
10. Jerry’s Journey to Finding His Voice
Jerry wrote about finding his voice—literally. Born with a speech impediment, he spent years learning how to speak confidently. His essay described the journey from quiet and hesitant to poised and outspoken. Through patience, discipline, and determination, Jerry didn’t just become a better speaker—he became a mentor and leader. His story reflected resilience, growth, and the power of self-expression. You can find Jerry’s essay here.
Why These Essays Work
What do all of these essays have in common? They don’t all follow the same structure. They aren’t all about big achievements. These essays work because they are personal, reflective, specific, and honest. These essays show admissions officers not just what the students have done, but who they are beneath the surface—their growth, resilience, and ability to learn from life’s challenges. By focusing on these traits, the essays create a genuine connection that sets them apart.
Your Story Matters
You don’t need a huge accomplishment or a dramatic story. Start with what matters to you. Then, reflect on why it matters. Being honest and open about your journey allows admissions officers to see your unique perspective and potential.
At College Raptor, we believe that every student has a story worth telling. Your unique experiences and honest reflections are your greatest strengths in your application. Use our free college planning tools to find schools that match your goals—and build a future you want.
