7 Example Common App Essays That Will Inspire You to Write a Standout

Introduction

The Common App is a daunting task, but it's also an opportunity to showcase your best self to colleges. Your essays are a chance to tell your story, highlight your accomplishments, and demonstrate your potential.

To help you get started, we've compiled a list of 7 example Common App essays that will inspire you to write a standout. These essays are all well-written, engaging, and thought-provoking. They cover a wide range of topics, from overcoming adversity to pursuing your passions.

We hope these essays will help you get started on your own Common App journey. Remember, there is no one right way to write an essay. The best essays are those that are genuine, authentic, and reflective of who you are.

Example Common App Essays

1. Overcoming Adversity

In this essay, the author describes how they overcame a personal challenge. They write about how they were diagnosed with a chronic illness at a young age and how they had to learn to live with the pain and uncertainty. The author also discusses how their illness has taught them to be resilient and to never give up on their dreams.

2. Pursuing Your Passions

In this essay, the author writes about their passion for music. They describe how they started playing the piano at a young age and how they have since become an accomplished pianist. The author also discusses how music has helped them to express themselves and to connect with others.

3. Making a Difference in the World

In this essay, the author writes about their volunteer work in a homeless shelter. They describe how they were inspired to help others after seeing the poverty and homelessness in their community. The author also discusses how their volunteer work has changed their perspective on life and made them more grateful for what they have.

4. Learning from Your Mistakes

In this essay, the author writes about a mistake they made in the past. They describe how they made a bad decision and how it had negative consequences. The author also discusses how they learned from their mistake and how they have grown as a person as a result.

5. Finding Your Voice

In this essay, the author writes about their journey to find their own voice. They describe how they were always shy and introverted, but how they eventually learned to speak up for themselves and to share their opinions. The author also discusses how finding their voice has helped them to become a more confident and assertive person.

6. The Importance of Family

In this essay, the author writes about their family. They describe how they have been shaped by their parents, siblings, and extended family. The author also discusses how their family has helped them to become the person they are today.

7. Your Dreams for the Future

In this essay, the author writes about their dreams for the future. They describe what they want to achieve in their career, their personal life, and the world. The author also discusses how they plan to make their dreams a reality.

Conclusion

We hope these example Common App essays have inspired you to write a standout essay of your own. Remember, the best essays are those that are genuine, authentic, and reflective of who you are. So be yourself, tell your story, and show colleges why you are a unique and special applicant.

Additional Tips for Writing a Standout Common App Essay

• Start early. The Common App deadline is November 1, but it's a good idea to start working on your essays well before then. This will give you plenty of time to brainstorm ideas, write drafts, and get feedback from others.
• Choose a topic that you are passionate about. The best essays are those that are written from the heart. So choose a topic that you care about and that you can write about with passion and enthusiasm.
• Be yourself. Don't try to write an essay that you think colleges want to read. Instead, be yourself and write about your own experiences and perspectives. Colleges want to get to know the real you, so don't be afraid to share your true self in your essays.
• Proofread carefully. Once you have finished writing your essays, proofread them carefully for any errors in grammar, spelling, or punctuation. You can also ask a friend or family member to read your essays and provide feedback.
• Get feedback from others. Once you have finished writing your essays, get feedback from others. This can help you to identify any areas that need improvement. You can ask your teachers, counselors, or family members to read your essays and provide feedback.

By following these tips, you can write a standout Common App essay that will help you to get into the college of your dreams.