50 Successful Ivy League Application Essays

Make Them  Smile
“Try to make it original and funny. Since the admissions officers are read-
ing thousands of essays, finding a way to make them smile is a good thing.”
—Samuel Linden, Harvard University
Stay True  to Yourself
“Be yourself. There is no better way to delight counselors than with per-
sonal touches. If a senior is funny, it will naturally come out in the words. If 
a senior is the ‘political activist’ it will also be perceived in the writing. Still 
check for grammar, spelling errors, and unclear language, but also remember 
to stay true to yourself.”
—Michelle Kizer, Cornell University
Brag
“I would say not being concerned about bragging. You have done so much, 
and this is your time to shine! Also, start early on writing the essays! It takes 
a lot more time than you expect. I started my essays about two months in 
advance, and I didn’t feel as it was enough time. As time goes on, you’ll learn 
to re-use essays and tweak them to make them work for different colleges and 
questions.
“Another good idea is to create a list of accomplishments, starting from 
as early as second or third grade. This comes in handy when filling out the 
awards/honors sections on the applications, although things really start ‘count-
ing’ from ninth grade on. In addition to accomplishments, I had every club I 

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Chapter 22: Advice on Writing from Ivy League Students
had ever joined, every award I had won in every competition, every leadership 
position I held in a club, etc. It might sound far-fetched, but it is easy to forget 
everything you have done in the hustle and bustle of application season. It is 
much easier to have the list handy and to work off that.”
—Ariela Koehler, MIT
Reflect
“reflect. Think about what events in your life have shaped the way you 
are today. Think about what is important to you, who you are, and how you 
arrived where you are. Be authentic and creative. remember to not only tell 
a story, but reflect on its meaning. And convey your thoughts and feelings 
emotionally as well as intellectually.”
—Timothy Nguyen Le, Yale University