These are the essays that helped their authors gain admission to Harvard, Yale, Brown, Columbia, Wellesley, Colby, and other outstanding schools—followed by invaluable comments by experts in admissions, placement, and college counseling at some of the best learning institutions around the country. This helpful guide includes:

100 complete essays with professional commentary

Examples of essays on common topics (family background, athletics, work experience), as well as the more offbeat

Essays on the immigrant experience by foreign-born students

A section of drawing and cartoon essays

A “What Not to Do” chapter from a top college counselor

And more

Compiled by members from The Harvard Independent, the weekly newsmagazine of Harvard University, this is an invaluable resource for students who want to write the best possible essay—and improve their chances of admission to the best possible school.