For many high school students, the college application process is so overwhelming that the essay becomes a major obstacle, sometimes even leading them to look for a website that will write a paper for you. It’s the one chance to talk directly to the admissions committee and show them who you are beyond the numbers. But what does a truly amazing, top-tier essay – the kind that makes an admissions officer pause – actually look like?
Here’s what elite institutions and admissions experts say.
It’s a Deeply Personal Story
The most memorable essays are authentic, diving into a unique experience or perspective that only you can offer. The goal isn’t to re-list accomplishments but to reveal your character. Harvard’s admissions office advises students to see the essay as an opportunity to “write about something you care about, rather than what you think the Admissions Committee wants to hear”. Your topic doesn’t need to be “exotic to be compelling”; what matters is the insight it gives about you.
This is echoed across the board. One former Harvard interviewer on Quora says to make the essay “acutely, achingly personal” as your unique perspective is what colleges want to see. While famous essays like the “Costco essay” gained attention for finding meaning in the mundane, the underlying lesson is authenticity. Don’t try to be someone else; tell a story that is yours.
It Shows, It Doesn’t Just Tell
A common mistake is just stating your qualities. Anyone can say they’re resilient or curious but an elite essay demonstrates these traits through a great story. Harvard Summer School’s writing guide advises students to remember the principle: “Show, Don’t Tell”. Instead of listing your achievements, use anecdotes and details to illustrate the arc of your emotional and personal journey.
The Princeton Review reinforces this, advising applicants not to just recount an experience, but to reflect on it. Learning how to write a hook is a great starting point to grab the reader’s attention. While the narrative is key, understanding the fundamentals of structure is also crucial. Students often have basic questions, such as wondering “how long is 5 paragraphs” are, and grasping these foundational concepts can provide a strong framework for your personal story.
It’s Written in Your Authentic Voice
There’s a temptation to use overly formal language or big words to sound more “academic.” But admissions officers read thousands of essays and can spot inauthenticity a mile away. The Princeton Review notes that many forgettable essays come from students trying to “sound smart rather than sounding like themselves”.
An answer on Quora says: “Your voice should be that of a normal human being sharing a story. The college essay is NOT the place to show off your SAT vocab”. The best essays use a clear, natural and polished voice. Focus on honest self-reflection and communication not on impressing with a thesaurus.
It Reveals How You Think and Grow
Ultimately a top-tier essay is a window into your mind. Admissions officers want to see more than what you’ve done; they want to know what drives you. Your essay should show your ability to think, question and learn. As one Quora contributor puts it: “shows the reader what makes you tick, what excites you, what motivates you”.
This is done through reflection. Don’t just narrate an event; explain its significance and meaning. A great essay often focuses on a moment of realization or personal growth, showing you are a thoughtful person who will contribute meaningfully to the campus community.
By focusing on a real story, showing your character through action, writing in your own voice and reflecting on your growth you can write an essay that truly stands out and leaves a lasting impression.
Sources
- “Application Tips”. Harvard College. https://college.harvard.edu/guides/application-tips
- “12 Strategies for Writing the Perfect College Essay”. Harvard Summer School. https://summer.harvard.edu/blog/12-strategies-to-writing-the-perfect-college-essay/
- “Crafting an Unforgettable College Essay”. The Princeton Review. https://www.princetonreview.com/college-advice/college-essay
- “What makes a college application essay truly outstanding?”. Quora. https://www.quora.com/What-makes-a-college-application-essay-truly-outstanding
- Primary Inspiration: “What does an elite, 0.1% college essay actually look like?” on Reddit (r/ApplyingToCollege)
