The Costco Essay by Brittany Stinson. This witty, insightful piece not only entertained its readers but also played a pivotal role in securing her admission to five Ivy League colleges and Stanford. What makes this essay so impactful? In this blog, we’ll take a deep dive into The Costco Essay, exploring its standout features and analyzing how Stinson’s unique approach captivated admissions committees. Whether you’re crafting your own college essay or simply curious about what sets exceptional writing apart, this analysis will provide valuable insights.
Managing to break free from my mother’s grasp, I charged. With arms flailing and chubby legs fluttering beneath me, I was the ferocious two year old rampaging through Costco on a Saturday morning. My mother’s eyes widened in horror as I jettisoned my churro; the cinnamonsugar rocket gracefully sliced its way through the air while I continued my spree. I sprinted through the aisles, looking up in awe at the massive bulk products that towered over me. Overcome with wonder, I wanted to touch and taste, to stick my head into industrialsized freezers, to explore every crevice. I was a conquistador, but rather than searching the land for El Dorado, I scoured aisles for free samples. Before inevitably being whisked away into a shopping cart, I scaled a mountain of plush toys and surveyed the expanse that lay before me: the kingdom of Costco.
Notorious for its oversized portions and dollarfifty hot dog combo, Costco is the apex of consumerism. From the days spent being toted around in a shopping cart to when I was finally tall enough to reach lofty sample trays, Costco has endured a steady presence throughout my life. As a veteran Costco shopper, I navigate the aisles of foodstuffs, thrusting the majority of my weight upon a generously filled shopping cart whose enormity juxtaposes my small frame. Over time, I’ve developed a habit of observing fellow patrons tote their carts piled with frozen burritos, cheese puffs, tubs of ice cream, and weightloss supplements. Perusing the aisles gave me time to ponder. Who needs three pounds of sour cream? Was cultured yogurt any more wellmannered than its uncultured counterpart? Costco gave birth to my unfettered curiosity.
While enjoying an obligatory hot dog, I did not find myself thinking about the ‘all beef’ goodness that Costco boasted. I instead considered finitudes and infinitudes, unimagined uses for tubs of sour cream, the projectile motion of said tub when launched from an eighty foot shelf or maybe when pushed from a speedy cart by a scrawny seventeen year old. I contemplated the philosophical: If there exists a thirtythree ounce jar of Nutella, do we really have free will? I experienced a harsh physics lesson while observing a shopper who had no evident familiarity of inertia’s workings. With a cart filled to overflowing, she made her way towards the sloped exit, continuing to push and push while steadily losing control until the cart escaped her and went crashing into a concrete column, 52″ plasma screen TV and all. Purchasing the yuletide hickory smoked ham inevitably led to a conversation between my father and me about Andrew Jackson’s controversiality. There was no questioning Old Hickory’s dedication; he was steadfast in his beliefs and pursuits – qualities I am compelled to admire, yet his morals were crooked. We both found the ham to be more likeable-and tender.
I adopted my exploratory skills, fine tuned by Costco, towards my intellectual endeavors. Just as I sampled buffalochicken dip or chocolate truffles, I probed the realms of history, dance and biology, all in pursuit of the ideal cart-one overflowing with theoretical situations and notions both silly and serious. I sampled calculus, crosscountry running, scientific research, all of which are now household favorites. With cart in hand, I do what scares me; I absorb the warehouse that is the world. Whether it be through attempting aerial yoga, learning how to chart blackbody radiation using astronomical software, or dancing in front of hundreds of people, I am compelled to try any activity that interests me in the slightest
Our Analysis :
The Costco Essay: A Breakdown of What Makes It Ivy League-Worthy
The Costco Essay gained widespread attention when Brittany Stinson used it to secure admission to five Ivy League colleges and Stanford. While its surface appeal lies in its humor and relatability, the essay’s deeper qualities are what truly resonated with admissions committees. Let’s explore the key elements that made it a standout piece.
1. Metaphorical Reflection with Humor
Stinson used Costco as a metaphor for her intellectual curiosity and love for exploration. By turning the warehouse aisles into a stage for philosophical pondering and witty observations, she showcased her ability to find meaning in the mundane. This metaphor gave the essay depth while the humor made it approachable and engaging, ensuring it stood out in a sea of applications.
2. Vivid Descriptions That Captivate
The essay painted a vivid picture, from the jar of Nutella to the “jettisoned churro.” These sensory details drew readers in, making them feel like they were alongside her in the aisles of Costco. This skill in description not only entertained but demonstrated her command over language.
3. Curiosity and Ethical Observation
Stinson didn’t just describe Costco; she questioned and reflected on it. For instance, her playful pondering of who might need three pounds of sour cream sparked curiosity and subtle humor, while her ethical observations about consumerism hinted at a thoughtful worldview.
4. Balancing Elevated and Simple Language
The essay seamlessly blended sophisticated reflections with casual, relatable language. Phrases like “Who needs three pounds of sour cream?” showed her comfort with her authentic voice, while other moments revealed her intellectual depth. This balance allowed her to connect with readers on multiple levels.
5. Philosophical Inquiry
Stinson’s ability to weave intellectual questions into her narrative added a layer of sophistication. By playfully pondering philosophical concepts, she showed admissions officers her capacity for deep thinking—an essential trait for a college-ready mind.
6. Connecting Personal Interests to Larger Themes
In her conclusion, Stinson drew parallels between her Costco explorations and her broader intellectual pursuits. This connection elevated the essay, framing her curiosity as a driving force in her life and academic interests.
7. Authenticity and Voice
The essay succeeded because it felt genuine. Stinson didn’t try to impress with overly complex language or grandiose topics. Instead, she used a simple, relatable experience to showcase her unique perspective and personality.
8. A Fresh Take on a Common Experience
While many applicants might write about achievements or dramatic life events, Stinson’s choice to focus on something as ordinary as Costco was refreshing. She turned a universal experience into a compelling narrative, showing admissions officers her ability to think differently.
The Costco Essay reminds us that brilliance doesn’t always lie in extraordinary topics. With humor, reflection, and authenticity, Stinson crafted a narrative that went beyond the classroom to reveal the kind of thoughtful, curious, and vibrant individual every college hopes to admit.
