How to Conclude College Essay: Reflections on the Journey of Life

In the finale of any college essay, the writer is confronted with a critical task: drawing together the threads of thought and experience, culminating in a reflective summary that encapsulates the journey of learning and growth. Here are several viewpoints on how to conclude a college essay effectively.

1. Embracing the Momentum
Concluding a college essay demands a conclusion that capitalizes on the momentum built throughout the essay. It should be a seamless blend of insights, both personal and academic, that lead to a coherent ending. One viewpoint could be to finish with a paragraph that bridges together past accomplishments, challenges faced, and aspirations for the future.

2. The Essence of Reflection
Reflecting on one’s experiences during college is a significant aspect of essay closure. In this perspective, the conclusion should serve as a mirror to what has been learned about oneself, others, and the world around us. It could be a discussion on how the student’s views have evolved during their college years and how these changes have shaped their outlook on life.

3. The Signpost of Insight
The concluding paragraph can also serve as a signpost, pointing to an insight gained during the essay’s journey. This insight could be about a particular subject matter or about oneself as a student and an individual. It’s about recognizing patterns in learning, growth, and personal development that offer deeper understanding of the world we live in.

4. Emotional Echoes and Final Thoughts
Another approach could be to conclude with an emotional tone that echoes the sentiment expressed throughout the essay. It could be a sense of gratitude for the learning experience, a hope for the future, or an appreciation for the people who have influenced the student during their college years. The conclusion is also an opportunity to offer final thoughts that resonate with readers and provide closure to the story being told.

5. A Call for Action or Decision
The final section could also serve as a call for action or decision, urging readers to consider certain actions or make particular choices based on what has been discussed in the essay. This viewpoint gives a purpose beyond merely reflecting—it moves beyond comprehension toward an advocacy of ideas.

In wrapping up any college essay, remember it is an exercise in expressing one’s growth as a student and human being. The conclusion should not only offer closure but should encapsulate in essence what has been covered in earlier pages and motivate readers to reflect upon its content further. Through diligent revision and understanding its purpose, students can craft an impactful conclusion that enhances their entire college essay.

Question: What elements should be included in a college essay conclusion?
Answer: A college essay conclusion should embrace momentum built throughout the essay, reflect on personal experiences and learning outcomes, provide closure to the story being told, include a call for action or decision-making where necessary, and serve as an echo of sentiments expressed in the essay itself.

Question: How can I make my college essay conclusion impactful?
Answer: To make your college essay conclusion impactful, revise diligently and understand its purpose. Consider incorporating personal anecdotes or experiences that resonate with readers, offer insights gained during your college years, express gratitude for learning experiences or appreciate people who have influenced you, and close with a powerful statement that encourages readers to consider action or decisions related to your discussion in the essay.