What is the most creative college admissions essay you've read?
When it comes to creative college admissions essays, several examples stand out for their unique approaches and engaging narratives.
The Cicada Essay
One notable example is the essay submitted to Hamilton College, where the student uses a humorous extended metaphor to compare themselves to cicadas. The essay discusses the student's eagerness to attend college and their inner trepidations through the lens of their dislike for cicadas, which descend on Washington, D.C. every 17 years. This creative comparison showcases the student's humor, humility, and willingness to approach the world with curiosity and creativity5.
The Pickle Truck Driver Essay
Another creative essay was submitted to Tufts College, where the student recounts their childhood dream of being a pickle truck driver, inspired by a favorite book. This humorous anecdote transitions into a discussion of the student's various career aspirations and scientific projects, striking a balance between playful and scientific language. The essay effectively uses contrasting tones to highlight the student's talents and drive5.
The "Leftover Night" Essay
An essay highlighted by the Koppelman Group features a student with multiple interests, including acting, songwriting, and rock music. The essay stands out for its quirky details, such as the student's ritual of pasting images to a script and their insistence on a well-toasted everything bagel for breakfast. This essay creatively showcases the student's unique personality and daily commitments, making it memorable and engaging for admissions officers2.
The "A Different Kind of Love" Essay
Although less detailed in the sources provided, an essay titled "A Different Kind of Love" submitted to Stanford is often mentioned for its sincerity and unique approach. This essay is praised for its ability to resonate personally with readers without relying on extraordinary experiences or scholarly vocabulary4.
These essays demonstrate creativity through their use of humor, unique metaphors, and personal anecdotes, making them stand out in the eyes of admissions officers.