Successful Harvard Application Essays?

Hi all! I'm starting to work on my college essays and I'd love to take a look at some successful Harvard application essays for inspiration. Any ideas on where I can find examples or any tips on what works specifically for Harvard?

Hi! It's a good idea to seek inspiration from successful application essays, but remember to make sure your essay is uniquely your own. A good resource for successful Harvard application essays is the book "50 Successful Harvard Application Essays," which gathers essays from real accepted applicants; you may find it at your local library or bookstore. You can also search online for individual examples or the Harvard Crimson student newspaper, which often features selected essays.

As for tips on what works specifically for Harvard, here are a few points to keep in mind:

1. Authenticity: Harvard admissions officers want to get a sense of who you are as a person. Be genuine in your writing, and avoid trying to present yourself as someone you’re not.

2. Intellectual curiosity: Show your passion for learning by discussing an intellectual challenge you faced and how you overcame it, or a topic you're deeply interested in that goes beyond the classroom.

3. Personal growth: Illustrate how an experience or interest has shaped your personal development and helped you become the person you are today.

4. Impact: Highlight any meaningful impact you've made in your community or beyond through your accomplishments and personal experiences.

5. Specific details: Be sure to include specific details or examples that help your essay stand out and paint a vivid picture of your story.

6. Reflect: Take time to introspect and analyze the reasons behind your choices and experiences. Demonstrate your self-awareness and your understanding of how these experiences have influenced your perspective.

Remember that Harvard, like many top colleges, values students with a strong "spike" or highly developed specialty. They're looking for applicants who stand out for their achievements in a particular field or interest area. Reflect on your own passions and "spikes" and see how you can convey them in your essay.

Finally, while it's helpful to study successful essays for inspiration, it's crucial to develop your own voice and write an essay that's true to you. Good luck, and happy writing!