how should i end my college essay

Should I conclude with a personal anecdote or a call to action?

How Should I End My College Essay?

Crafting the perfect conclusion for your college essay is akin to painting the final brushstroke on a masterpiece; it’s the last chance to leave an indelible mark on the reader’s mind. The decision on how to conclude your essay can be as varied and intricate as the narrative itself. Whether you choose to delve into a personal anecdote that resonates deeply with your experience or craft a call to action that encourages readers to think beyond the confines of academia, both approaches have their merits. Let us explore these two methods in detail, along with other potential strategies that could enhance the impact of your concluding paragraph.

Personal Anecdotes

Personal anecdotes are a powerful tool for capturing the reader’s attention and conveying your unique voice. They provide a relatable connection that can make your essay more engaging and memorable. For instance, if you write about overcoming adversity during your academic journey, sharing a specific moment can illustrate your resilience and dedication. This approach allows the reader to see you as a real person, rather than just a name in a sea of applicants.

Example:

“In my sophomore year, when faced with a seemingly insurmountable project deadline, I decided to take matters into my own hands. With determination and a bit of creative problem-solving, I managed to meet the deadline while still maintaining a B+ average. This experience taught me that failure is not the end but a stepping stone towards success.”

Calls to Action

On the other hand, a call to action can prompt the reader to reflect on your message and consider its implications. This method encourages deeper thinking and engagement with your ideas. By asking the reader to consider what they can do differently or how they can contribute to the world, you inspire them to take action. For example, if your essay discusses the importance of environmental conservation, you might suggest ways in which they can get involved in local initiatives.

Example:

“I urge each of you to take the first step towards making a difference in our community. Whether it’s volunteering at a local park clean-up day or participating in a climate change awareness campaign, every small action counts. Together, we can create a sustainable future for generations to come.”

Reflective Summaries

Another effective strategy is to summarize your main points in a reflective manner. This approach allows you to tie together the various threads of your essay and provide closure to your argument. It’s like tying the loose ends of a story, ensuring that all aspects of your essay are addressed.

Example:

“As I reflect on my journey through college, I realize that perseverance and adaptability have been key ingredients in achieving my goals. These qualities not only propelled me forward academically but also equipped me with valuable life skills that will serve me well in whatever path I choose.”

Synthesis of Strategies

Ultimately, the best conclusion for your college essay is one that synthesizes elements from all the above strategies. A combination of personal anecdotes, calls to action, and reflective summaries can create a compelling and cohesive ending that leaves a lasting impression. For instance, you might start with a personal anecdote to engage the reader, followed by a call to action to inspire them, and conclude with a reflective summary to tie everything together.

Example:

“In my junior year, when I was struggling with writer’s block, a professor encouraged me to seek inspiration from nature. That summer, I hiked through the Appalachian Trail, where I found the peace and solitude necessary to overcome my blocks. As I reflect on this experience, I am reminded that sometimes, stepping away from the chaos of daily life can provide the clarity needed to tackle even the most daunting challenges. Now, I challenge each of you to find your own moments of peace and reflection, whether it’s through hiking, reading, or simply taking a break from your studies. And let us all strive to make a positive impact in our communities, no matter how small.”

Conclusion

In essence, the art of ending your college essay lies in finding the right balance between personal touch and broader implications. By employing a combination of personal anecdotes, calls to action, and reflective summaries, you can craft a concluding paragraph that not only wraps up your essay but also leaves a lasting impact on your reader. Remember, the goal is to inspire, motivate, and encourage your audience to think critically and act responsibly.