Everybody has thoughts on how to begin a personal statement, but far too many applicants don’t have a good plan for how to conclude their essay. While the opening lines are crucial for establishing the tone, creating a sense of theme and mood, and grabbing attention, the conclusion holds equal weight in leaving a lasting impression. Think of your essay as a journey—you've guided the reader through your experiences, aspirations, and qualifications; now it's time to bring everything together in a way that resonates. A compelling conclusion not only ties all your narratives into a cohesive whole but also reinforces your strengths and fit for the program. At Gurufi, we help clients ensure that their essay doesn’t just end, it finishes with a bang. Here's five tips on how to craft a powerful ending that leaves the admissions committee thinking, "This is the candidate we need."
- Bringing Your Story Full Circle
If your introduction sets the tone and stakes of your personal statement, your conclusion is where you tie all threads together. One effective strategy is to revisit the story or anecdote you opened with. This doesn't mean repeating it verbatim but reflecting on it in light of the journey you've described throughout your essay. For instance, if you began with a story about leading a challenging project at work, circle back to how that experience has shaped your readiness for an MBA program. Highlight the growth and insights gained since then. By echoing elements from your introduction—be it specific phrases, emotions, or themes—you create a satisfying sense of closure that resonates with the reader.
A really effective tactic is to identify words, turns of phrases or ideas that helped to give your introduction some “oomph” and then repeat those in the conclusion. Thoughtful, intentional, and carefully-selected use of repetition in this way can really help to give a sense that you’ve come full circle.
- The Final Impression: Your Closing Argument
Think of your conclusion as the closing argument in a legal case. This is your last chance to leave a strong impression on the "jury"—the admissions committee. What are the key takeaways you want them to remember? Focus on encapsulating your core strengths and how they align with the program's values and offerings. Be specific about what you bring to the table and how the MBA program will help you achieve your goals. This isn't the place for new information but rather a synthesis of everything you've presented, distilled into a powerful final message.
- Avoid the Trap of Generic Summaries
Phrases like "in conclusion" or "to sum up" can inadvertently signal to the reader that it's time to tune out. These clichés not only disrupt the flow but also undermine the impact of your final thoughts. Instead, seamlessly transition into your conclusion without announcing it.
Maintain the narrative voice you've used throughout your essay. If you've been storytelling, continue that style till the end. The goal is to keep the reader engaged until the very last word.
- Demonstrating Growth and Progress
One of the most compelling elements in any personal statement is the demonstration of personal growth. Your conclusion is an excellent opportunity to highlight how you've evolved over time. Reflect on the experiences you've shared and discuss how they've contributed to your personal and professional development.
For example, if you recounted a failure or challenge earlier in your essay, discuss how overcoming it has prepared you for the rigors of an MBA program. Share specific instances where you've applied those lessons to achieve better outcomes. This not only shows self-awareness but also a proactive approach to personal development.
- Ending with Optimism and Possibility
Leave your reader with a sense of optimism and excitement about your future. Convey your enthusiasm for the opportunities that lie ahead and your readiness to embrace them. This positive tone can be infectious, leaving the admissions committee eager to have you as part of their community.
Express confidence in your ability to contribute meaningfully to the program and the broader business world. This isn't about boasting but about conveying genuine passion and commitment to your goals.
Practical Tips for Crafting Your Conclusion
- Reflect on Your Journey: Take a moment to consider how each part of your essay builds towards your conclusion. Ensure that there's a logical flow leading to your final thoughts.
- Be Authentic: Authenticity resonates more than grandiose statements. Speak from the heart about your aspirations and what you genuinely hope to achieve.
- Keep It Concise: While it's important to be thorough, avoid unnecessary fluff. A powerful conclusion is often succinct and to the point.
- Edit and Revise: Your conclusion deserves as much attention as the rest of your essay. Revisit it multiple times to refine your language and ensure clarity.
Examples of Effective Conclusions
- "As I stand on the cusp of this new journey, I carry with me the lessons from leading my team through uncharted territories. The MBA program at XYZ University is the perfect next step to amplify my ability to drive meaningful change in the industry."
- "The challenges I've overcome have not only shaped me but have ignited a passion for innovation and leadership. I am excited about the possibilities that the MBA program offers to further this journey of growth."
Final Thoughts
Your conclusion is your last opportunity to make a memorable impact. Remember, the admissions committee reads countless essays, and you want to squeeze every bit of juice out of the time they’re focused on your essay. A well-crafted conclusion can be the differentiator that sets you apart. It's the final note in your personal symphony—make it resonate.
For more help with your personal statement, check us out at Gurufi.com. Our personal statement editors and consultants have decades of experience helping clients get into top MBA programs. Our specialty is helping you craft compelling personal statements that move the needle in your admissions process! For questions, shoot us an email at service@gurufi.com. Check us out on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
