Hey there, I'm beginning my college application journey and I was wondering – has there been a college essay that's considered the most famous or impactful? I think this might help me in figuring out what sets an essay apart. Cheers!
One of the most famous and impactful essays in the college admissions world is known as "The Costco Essay," written by a student named Brittany Stinson in her 2016 application to five Ivy League colleges (all of which accepted her). The essay provides a vibrant narrative of her curiosity and inquisitive nature, conveyed through a simple trip to Costco with her mom.
What sets this essay apart is not an unusual or prestigious background, but rather how its narrative is crafted and the thought processes it showcases. This student used an ordinary trip to Costco and turned it into a lens through which to view her intellectual development. Every little observation she made in Costco led to a grander point about her curiosity and passion for learning, making it engaging for admissions officers to read.
But, it's important to remember that you shouldn't try to mimic an established essay like this one. Rather, draw inspiration from its uniqueness and creative approach in showcasing the individual. So, if you want to use this as a guide for your own essays, think of seemingly mundane experiences in your own life that reveals something more profound about your personality, interests, or values.
And remember, the purpose of the essay is to provide a snapshot of who you are. The 'conveyed narration' should make the admission officer feel like they know you better after reading the essay. Best of luck!
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.