Real Common App Essay Examples (And Why They Worked)
Get Inspired and Write an Essay That Stands Out in 2025
🔍 Why Look at Examples?
Sometimes the best way to understand what makes a great college essay is to see one. Below, we’re sharing real Common App essays (with permission) that helped students get into schools like Clemson, Furman, and even Ivy League programs.
Each essay is followed by a quick analysis so you can learn what made it strong—and how to apply that to your own story.
✨ Common App Essay Example #1
Topic: Overcoming a Language Barrier
"When I first moved to the U.S. in 6th grade, I barely spoke English. I relied on gestures, Google Translate, and my sketchbook. Today, I lead my school's debate team..."
Why It Works:
✅ Shows growth over time
✅ Highlights resilience and initiative
✅ Ends with a reflection that ties back to values
✨ Common App Essay Example #2
Topic: A Broken Phone and a New Perspective
"My phone shattered the morning before I left for a summer engineering program. I panicked—until I didn’t. For two weeks, I looked up. I listened. I built things..."
Why It Works:
✅ Unique angle on personal growth
✅ Concrete storytelling
✅ Quiet, introspective voice that feels authentic
✨ Common App Essay Example #3
Topic: Baking as a Way to Connect Generations
"Every Sunday, my grandmother and I bake pastéis de nata. Through flour and fire, she tells me stories of Portugal, and I discover pieces of myself..."
Why It Works:
✅ Strong cultural identity
✅ Sensory language
✅ Connects personal tradition to universal themes
👀 What to Look For in Good Essay Examples
The best Common App essays usually:
🎯 Stay focused on one central idea
✍️ Use storytelling over lists
🤝 Share vulnerability or transformation
🎓 Connect back to who you are now
❌ Common Mistakes You Won’t See Here
Too much bragging, not enough reflection
Generic topics with no personal angle
Listing accomplishments instead of telling a story
Essays written to impress rather than connect
💡 Want Feedback on Your Essay?
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