how to end a common app essay

how might the structure of an essay influence its conclusion?

how to end a common app essay

The conclusion of an essay serves as the final impression that readers hold of your piece. It is where you wrap up your thoughts, summarize the main points, and leave a lasting impact on the reader. For the Common Application essay, which is a 650-word personal statement, crafting an impactful conclusion is crucial. This conclusion should not only tie together the various parts of your essay but also inspire the admissions committee to consider you as a potential fit for their institution.

One effective strategy is to use a concluding paragraph to reinforce your central theme or thesis. By restating your main argument in a new light, you can remind the reader of the significance of your experience or perspective. For instance, if your essay focuses on overcoming adversity, you could end with a quote from someone who has faced similar challenges, emphasizing the resilience and growth that have come from these experiences.

Another approach is to offer a forward-looking perspective. Instead of simply summarizing your achievements, suggest what you plan to do next or how you will contribute to the college community. This can be particularly powerful when you’re applying to colleges with specific programs or majors in mind. For example, if you’re applying to a university with a strong focus on sustainability, you might conclude by discussing how your academic and extracurricular pursuits align with the university’s goals.

Moreover, you can use your conclusion to reflect on the broader implications of your story. Consider how your experiences have shaped your values or influenced your future goals. This type of reflection can provide depth and context to your narrative, making it more compelling and memorable.

Alternatively, you might choose to end with a call to action. Invite the reader to imagine a scenario where they encounter your story, perhaps in a classroom discussion or during a campus visit. This technique can help create a vivid mental image and make your essay more engaging. For example, you could envision yourself giving a speech about a significant moment in your life, inspiring others to pursue their dreams.

Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of a poignant anecdote or a thought-provoking question. These elements can linger in the minds of admissions officers long after they finish reading your essay. They serve as a gentle reminder of the unique qualities you bring to the table.

In conclusion, the way you end your Common Application essay is just as important as the content within. By carefully crafting your conclusion, you can ensure that your essay leaves a lasting impression and resonates with the admissions committee. Whether through reinforcing your main theme, offering a forward-looking perspective, reflecting on broader implications, using a call to action, or including a poignant anecdote, there are numerous ways to craft an impactful conclusion that showcases your strengths and makes a compelling case for why you deserve to be considered for admission.

相关问答

1. Q: What are some tips for writing a strong conclusion for the Common App essay?

   • A: A strong conclusion for the Common App essay should reinforce your main theme, offer a forward-looking perspective, reflect on broader implications, use a call to action, or include a poignant anecdote. It should leave a lasting impact and inspire the admissions committee to consider you favorably.

2. Q: How does the structure of an essay affect its conclusion?

   • A: The structure of an essay influences its conclusion by guiding the flow of ideas and ensuring coherence. A well-structured essay provides a clear path for the conclusion, allowing you to effectively summarize key points and leave a lasting impression.

3. Q: Can you give an example of a conclusion that uses a forward-looking perspective?

   • A: Sure! If your essay discusses how you overcame a challenge, you could end with something like, “By sharing my journey, I hope to inspire others to face their own obstacles with courage and determination.” This forward-looking perspective encourages the reader to think about how your experiences can motivate future students.

4. Q: How can a reflective conclusion add depth to the essay?

   • A: A reflective conclusion adds depth by providing context and insight into the broader implications of your story. For example, you might conclude by saying, “Reflecting on this experience has deepened my understanding of the importance of perseverance and self-discovery.” This type of reflection can make your essay more meaningful and memorable.