7 Common App Essay Samples

Common App Prompt #1 Sample Essay

Prompt 1: Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

As the door to the Taekwondo dojang swung open, a world of discipline, focus, and self-discovery awaited me. The floor echoed with the rhythmic sounds of feet striking pads and the instructor's commands, creating a symphony that would become the backdrop to my life's journey. My passion for Taekwondo is a fundamental part of who I am, and without it, my application would be incomplete.

Taekwondo has been more than just a sport; it is the canvas on which I have painted the portrait of my character. I began this journey as a timid, introverted child, struggling to find my voice in the noisy world around me. Taekwondo became my sanctuary, where I could channel my energy and develop the self-discipline that had eluded me.

In the early years, Taekwondo presented me with a series of challenges that tested my resilience. I vividly remember my first tournament, where I faced a formidable opponent. I was overmatched, and my inexperience showed. But that loss was not a failure; it was a lesson. I learned that setbacks are not roadblocks but stepping stones towards success.

The lessons of perseverance and grit I imbibed in the dojang served me well outside its walls. Taekwondo equipped me to face life's obstacles with courage and determination. When I encountered setbacks or disappointments, I remembered the mantra of the dojang: "Keep going." It became my guiding principle, propelling me to overcome academic challenges and personal setbacks.

The dojang's philosophy of respect and self-discipline extended beyond the mat. I found myself carrying these values into my interactions with family and friends. My parents noticed the transformation, observing that I had become more respectful and compassionate. I realized that my identity, shaped by the principles of Taekwondo, was evolving into one of a responsible and empathetic individual in all areas of my life.

The connection between Taekwondo and my identity deepened as I progressed through the ranks. It was not just a sport but an art form that allowed me to express myself. The patterns and techniques were like a language I was learning, and with every new move, I felt I was writing a chapter in my own story. One defining moment came when I achieved my black belt, a culmination of years of dedication and sacrifice. This accomplishment was not only a personal milestone but a symbol of my transformation. I realized that my identity had grown in tandem with my martial skills. I was not the same timid child who had entered the dojang for the first time.

My journey with Taekwondo has not only shaped my identity but has also enriched my interactions with the world. It has given me a unique perspective on the importance of discipline, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence. The values I have imbibed from Taekwondo have guided my academic pursuits, enabling me to excel in my studies and take on leadership roles in school and community organizations.

Taekwondo is the heartbeat of my identity, the rhythm that underscores the melody of my life. Without Taekwondo, my application would be incomplete because it is not just a hobby; it is an essential part of who I am, guiding me on the path of personal growth and success. (538 words)

Common App Prompt #2 Sample Essay

Prompt 2: The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

Life often throws us unexpected curveballs, moments when we are forced to confront our vulnerabilities and redefine our paths. My encounter with one such challenge occurred when I faced rejection from a highly competitive private drama program. This setback was more than a mere disappointment; it became a pivotal moment in my life that tested my resolve, altered my perspective, and transformed me into a more resilient individual.

As a young and aspiring actor, I had long dreamt of honing my skills in a prestigious drama program known for producing thespians of the highest caliber. The audition day was a blend of excitement and nerves, the culmination of countless hours of preparation. I had rehearsed my monologues meticulously, donned my best attire, and radiated enthusiasm. I felt ready to claim my place in this coveted program.

However, the outcome was far from what I had envisioned. The letter of rejection arrived, shattering my aspirations. My dreams of honing my craft in this exclusive drama program lay in ruins. I was engulfed by a whirlpool of emotions: disbelief, disappointment, and self-doubt. It was a setback that not only stung but also left me questioning my abilities as an actor and my chosen path.

Yet, as I look back, I see that this rejection was a profound turning point in my journey. It pushed me to confront my vulnerabilities and embrace resilience. I realized that success in the dramatic arts, as in life, is not solely about acceptance; it's also about endurance and growth.

The rejection ignited a burning determination within me. I sought out additional acting opportunities, participated in community theater, and enrolled in acting workshops. I devoured plays, studied acting techniques, and rehearsed tirelessly. My resolve to prove myself grew stronger.

This setback taught me the value of perseverance. I discovered that the process of improvement, the journey of self-discovery, was more significant than the destination. I honed my skills not for the approval of a particular program but for the sheer love of the art itself. It encouraged me to take risks and embrace uncertainty. I became more open to exploring diverse roles and acting styles, pushing my boundaries, and experimenting without the fear of rejection looming over me.

This experience helped me develop a profound sense of self-awareness. I learned that my passion for acting went beyond seeking external validation. It was a deeply rooted desire to communicate, connect with others, and evoke emotions through storytelling. I discovered a more authentic and resilient version of myself—one who could navigate setbacks with grace and determination.

In retrospect, not gaining entry into the program was a blessing in disguise. It redefined my perspective on success, and shaped me into a more dedicated and self-assured actor. It was not the end of my journey but a critical chapter in my narrative.

As I continue to pursue my passion for acting, I do so with the knowledge that success is not guaranteed, but the pursuit of excellence is its own reward. This apparent failure has become a beacon of resilience, guiding me through the spotlight and shadows of the dramatic world, and for that, I am forever grateful. (527 words)

Common App Prompt #3 Sample Essay

Prompt 3: Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

Family is often the cornerstone of our values, beliefs, and traditions. It's where we inherit the values and worldviews that shape us. I have always had a profound respect for the traditions passed down by my family, especially those cherished by my father. However, there was a time when I found myself at a crossroads, questioning one of his long-held beliefs: the tradition of arranged marriages.

Growing up in a multicultural family, I had always been exposed to a diverse range of beliefs and customs. My father, a first-generation immigrant, held firm to the tradition of arranged marriages, which was deeply ingrained in our cultural heritage. It was a belief he had carried with him from his homeland, a belief that had guided our family's decisions for generations.

The moment I truly began to question this belief was during a candid conversation with my father. My father had always spoken fondly of the arranged marriage that had brought my parents together, emphasizing the strength of their bond and the wisdom of the tradition. He expressed his hopes for a similar path for me in the future.

But as I listened to my father's stories and advice, I couldn't help but wonder. The idea of entrusting such a pivotal decision to others seemed alien to me. I had grown up in a society that celebrated individual choice and personal freedom, where we were encouraged to pursue our dreams and make our own choices.

What prompted my thinking was the clash between my father's deeply held beliefs and the values of the society in which I had been raised. It was the realization that I had a choice to make – to follow a tradition that my father held dear or to embrace the path of personal autonomy and choice.

The more I questioned the belief, the more I saw the complex interplay between tradition, cultural identity, and the individual pursuit of happiness. I understood that arranged marriages had been a source of stability and cohesion in my family's history, but they did not resonate with the world I had come to know.

As I shared my doubts with my father, we engaged in a series of heartfelt conversations. Our discussions were filled with mutual respect and a desire to understand each other's perspectives. My father, who had hoped I would continue this tradition, began to appreciate my concerns and the changing world around us. My father, though initially hesitant, came to support my decision to pursue relationships based on mutual affection and shared values. He saw that love, compatibility, and choice were equally essential in fostering strong, lasting relationships.

My questioning of my father's belief did not sever our connection; instead, it deepened our understanding of one another. It underscored the fact that traditions, while meaningful, should not be followed blindly. We have the power to adapt and evolve our beliefs.

This experience allowed me to honor my family's traditions while also embracing the principles that resonate with me. It is a reminder that change, when approached with respect and empathy, can strengthen family bonds and help us evolve into more authentic versions of ourselves. (523 words)

Common App Prompt #4 Sample Essay

Prompt 4: Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?

The echoes of a bustling school corridor can be both comforting and overwhelming, a familiar symphony of voices and footsteps. Yet, for me, those echoes once hid a painful melody of taunts and intimidation. It was in this backdrop of daily torment that my teacher emerged as an unexpected savior, a beacon of compassion and protection when I needed it most.

The memory of that trying period is etched in my mind. I was a timid and introverted student, struggling to find my place. The bullies’ jeers and taunts were relentless, casting long shadows over my self-esteem and well-being. I often felt isolated and vulnerable, trapped in a cycle of fear and humiliation. It was during my math class that Mr. Anderson, my teacher, emerged as an unexpected ally. One day, he made a simple yet profound gesture. He turned his attention to me and encouraged me to share my thoughts on the problem on the board, knowing that math was my favorite subject.

It was a small act, one that may have seemed inconsequential to others, but for me, it was a lifeline. Mr. Anderson's kindness provided a stark contrast to my daily school life. In his class, I felt valued and heard. I felt that my interests and voice mattered.

It was this gesture that marked the beginning of my transformation. Mr. Anderson asked me if I would consider tutoring younger students who struggled in math, and with his unwavering support and guidance, I began to find my voice. During and after school during tutoring sessions, his classroom became a sanctuary, a place where I could express myself without the fear of ridicule. As I spoke up more often, I realized that my words had value, and that realization was empowering.

Yet, his kindness extended beyond the walls of his classroom. He took the time to engage with me, to inquire about my well-being, and to offer guidance. He shared stories of his own experiences with bullying.

Mr. Anderson's intervention had a profound impact on my life. I felt not only protected but also motivated to stand up to the bullies. I found strength in his support and in my newfound sense of self-worth. I realized that kindness and compassion were powerful weapons against cruelty.

This experience not only changed my perspective on bullying but also shaped my outlook on life. I became more empathetic, determined to be a source of support for others facing similar challenges. Mr. Anderson's compassion had a ripple effect, inspiring me to pay his kindness forward.

His compassionate actions transformed me into a more resilient and empathetic individual, determined to be a source of support for others. This experience serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, kindness and compassion can be powerful tools for change and personal growth. (469 words)

Common App Prompt #5 Sample Essay

Prompt 5: Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

Change, they say, begins with self-awareness. For me, that self-awareness was a revelation that emerged from a cloud of denial and excuses. I had to confront a harsh truth: I had been a bully, and it was high time I acknowledged my actions, took responsibility, and embarked on a journey of transformation.

The realization of my behavior as a bully was a painful one, a mirror held up to my actions that I had long avoided. It was a stark confrontation with the hurtful consequences of my behavior, both for those I had targeted and for myself. The catalyst for this realization was a series of events that unfolded during my sophomore year in high school.

I had always considered myself assertive, someone who didn't back down from confrontations. However, my assertiveness had taken a darker turn. I was known for my sharp tongue and sarcastic remarks, often targeting those who I felt were different or vulnerable. I derived a sense of power and superiority from these actions, unaware of the emotional toll they were taking on others.

The tipping point came when a close friend, Sarah, revealed to me the anguish she had experienced due to my hurtful comments. She opened up about the constant anxiety she felt around me. Her words cut deep, and the realization that I had caused such pain was a heavy burden to bear.

My initial reaction was one of defensiveness. I rationalized my behavior, explaining that it was all in good fun and that Sarah was simply too sensitive. However, her honesty and vulnerability forced me to reevaluate my actions. I began to reflect on the broader impact of my behavior, on the lives I had inadvertently disrupted and the friendships I had strained.

The process of acknowledging my actions as bullying was a humbling one. It required me to confront my own flaws, to peel away the layers of denial, and to admit that I had caused harm. It was not an easy path to walk, but it was a necessary one.

I began by reaching out to those I had hurt and offering heartfelt apologies. It was important to me that they knew I understood the pain I had caused and that I genuinely regretted my actions. The process of seeking forgiveness was not met with immediate reconciliation, but it was an essential step in my journey to do better.

Equally important was the commitment to change. I knew that simply apologizing would not be enough; I had to actively work on altering my behavior. This required cultivating empathy and a heightened awareness of how my words and actions affected those around me. I also sought the guidance of a counselor who helped me understand the underlying insecurities and issues that had driven my bullying behavior.

The most profound change, however, was in my interactions with others. I made a concerted effort to be kinder and more empathetic, to use my assertiveness in ways that were constructive rather than destructive. I actively sought out friendships with those I had previously targeted, fostering a sense of trust and understanding.

The journey of transformation was not without its challenges. It involved confronting the discomfort of self-discovery and facing the consequences of my actions. It required me to continually remind myself of the impact my words could have on others and to resist the urge to revert to old habits. I learned that confronting one's own flaws and taking responsibility for one's actions is a necessary step toward personal growth and redemption. (588 words)

Common App Prompt #6 Sample Essay

Prompt 6: Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

I find myself in a world where time often loses its grip on me, where the lines between day and night blur into a continuous journey of exploration and discovery. The topic that engrosses me to the point of losing track of time is the ever-evolving field of engineering and its capacity to reshape our world. This fascination is more than just a passion; it's a driving force, a calling, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge.

Engineering is the nexus where science, creativity, and problem-solving converge. It is the art of turning ideas into tangible solutions, of harnessing the power of innovation to tackle complex challenges. What captivates me about engineering is its boundless scope and the potential to create real-world impact. It's a world where ideas morph into inventions, where concepts are molded into life-changing technologies, and where problems are seen as opportunities for solutions.

One of the aspects of engineering that captures my imagination is the endless realm of possibilities it offers. From civil and mechanical engineering to electrical and software engineering, each discipline has its unique set of problems to solve, each with its own opportunities for innovation. The field constantly expands and evolves, driven by the need to address emerging global challenges, from sustainable energy solutions to advanced medical technologies.

In my journey as an engineering student, I have explored various subfields, each opening up new dimensions of knowledge. I have lost myself in the intricacies of circuit design, the elegance of structural analysis, and the efficiency of software development. Each area has its own set of principles and complexities, each with its unique beauty.

What makes engineering even more captivating is the real-world application of theory. In a laboratory or workshop, I see concepts come to life. I witness the magic of a computer program executing a complex algorithm or the efficiency of a circuit powering a device. The tangible results of engineering are awe-inspiring, and they reinforce my passion for the field.

When I want to delve deeper into the world of engineering, I turn to a multitude of resources. Books by engineering visionaries like Elon Musk and Richard Feynman inspire me with their forward-thinking ideas and innovative approaches. I seek out mentors, professors, and fellow students who share my enthusiasm, engaging in discussions that expand my knowledge. Online courses, research papers, and hands-on projects serve as my pathways to a deeper understanding of the field.

But it's not just the technical aspect of engineering that captivates me. It's also the way engineering fosters a mindset of resilience and adaptability. Engineering teaches me to embrace failure as an opportunity for growth, to see setbacks as challenges to overcome.

It instills in me the importance of continuous learning and the need to stay current in a rapidly evolving world. In engineering, I find not just a field of study but a lifelong passion, a path that beckons me to shape the future through creativity, knowledge, and a relentless pursuit of solutions. (496 words)

Common App Prompt #7 Sample Essay

Prompt 7: Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

Topic: Who do you admire most and why?

In the intricate fabric of my life, one person has always shone brightly as an emblem of unwavering strength and kindness: my father. His life story is a tapestry woven with threads of resilience and compassion, and it is through his remarkable journey that I have learned some of life's most profound lessons.

My father's early years were marked by financial struggle, growing up in a modest family with limited means. Despite these obstacles, he demonstrated an unyielding commitment to transcend his circumstances. He held tight to his dream of pursuing higher education, not allowing financial constraints to hold him back.

One of the most remarkable examples of my father's determination was his pursuit of a college education while juggling multiple part-time jobs to support himself and contribute to the family's finances. His relentless dedication and ability to balance the demands of work and study were nothing short of inspiring. The sacrifices he made for the sake of his education exemplified his unwavering commitment to self-improvement and personal growth.

His ability to persevere through the hardships he faced, maintaining focus on his educational and career goals, has had a profound impact on my own approach to life's challenges. He instilled in me the belief that resilience is a potent force that can help us overcome any obstacle that stands in our way.

A significant turning point in my admiration for my father occurred when he was diagnosed with a chronic health condition in his late thirties. It was a moment that could have easily crushed his spirit, leaving him disheartened and defeated. However, he chose a different path. He tackled his health issues with a remarkable combination of determination, optimism, and proactivity. Rather than succumb to despair, he sought out the best medical care, diligently followed treatment plans, and adopted a steadfastly positive outlook on life. This attitude was not only courageous but also transformative.

My father's approach to his health challenges taught me the profound lesson that our responses to life's adversities are within our control. In the face of uncertainty, he demonstrated that maintaining a positive perspective and unwavering hope can be instrumental in overcoming life's difficulties. His resilience has been a guiding light for me, showing that we can navigate even the most daunting trials with grace and optimism.

Moreover, my father's admirable qualities extend beyond resilience. His heart overflows with kindness and generosity, and he demonstrates these traits through his actions. For instance, I have witnessed him go out of his way to help both family and strangers. He often extends financial support to those facing financial hardship, offering mentorship and guidance to those in need.

One poignant example of his generosity is the way he helps to fund the education of underprivileged children in our community. He understands the value of education and believes that every child should have the opportunity to learn and grow. His commitment to providing scholarships and educational resources to these children showcases his profound kindness and dedication to making the world a better place, one life at a time.

In our family, my father's commitment and love have always been unwavering. He has made countless sacrifices to ensure our well-being and happiness. One example that stands out is his determination to be present for important family events, despite work commitments and travel. He values our family bond immensely and has taught me the importance of prioritizing and cherishing the relationships that matter most.

My father is a source of admiration and inspiration, not only for his resilience and determination but also for his boundless kindness and commitment to family and community. His life journey has provided me with invaluable lessons in perseverance, maintaining a positive perspective in the face of adversity, and the transformative power of generosity and compassion. (629 words)

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