Famous college essays?

I'm curious: What are some famous college essays that have really made an impression on admissions officers? Where can I find them? I'd love to get some inspiration as I work on my own college essays.

Hey there! It's great that you're seeking inspiration for your college essays. There are a few well-known college essays that have impressed admissions officers and become famous over the years. Here are a few examples:

1. "Costco Essay": A student wrote about her love for browsing Costco, using it as a metaphor for her curiosity and desire to explore the world. She linked her experiences at Costco to her intellectual interests and how she hoped to grow as a learner.

2. "The Elusive String": This essay details the author's quest to untangle the string on an origami crane, which becomes an allegory for his persistence and problem-solving abilities.

3. "Math and Modeling": In this essay, a student wrote about his passion for Mathematics and how he applied mathematical modeling to real-world problems, from predicting basketball scores to measuring the impact of social policies.

4. "Strawberries": A student reflected on the life lessons she learned while working at her family's strawberry stand. The essay delves into the values of hard work, personal responsibility, and the importance of community.

5. "The Great Indoors": This essay tells the story of a student who finds solace and inspiration by exploring the natural world inside a greenhouse. It speaks to the power of immersing oneself in one's interests and the profound impact they can have on personal growth.

You can find these essays and others on various websites and blogs dedicated to college admissions advice like CollegeVine, which often compiles notable examples of application essays. Keep in mind that these essays are praised for their uniqueness and creativity. It's crucial not to replicate them, but rather to use them as inspiration to find your own distinctive voice and story.

Remember that what makes a college essay stand out is the authenticity and personal connection that you bring to the topic. Find something that's meaningful to you and tells admissions officers something new about you that they wouldn't otherwise glean from other parts of your application. Best of luck in crafting your essays!