How to Conclude a Scholarship Essay? - Leave a Lasting Impact

The scholarship essay is a crucial component of the application process, often serving as the deciding factor between two equally qualified candidates. It's a chance for applicants to showcase their personality, passions, and goals, setting them apart from the rest. Yet, despite its significance, many applicants overlook the importance of a well-crafted conclusion.

Concluding a scholarship essay effectively is not just about wrapping up the narrative, but also about leaving a lasting impression on the reader. It's a final opportunity to reiterate the applicant's unique value proposition, reinforce their argument, and make a compelling case for why they deserve the scholarship. In today's competitive academic landscape, the stakes are higher than ever, and a strong conclusion can be the difference between securing the award and being left behind.

For many students, securing a scholarship can be a life-changing opportunity, providing the necessary financial support to pursue their academic dreams without the burden of excessive debt. As such, understanding how to conclude a scholarship essay effectively is more than just a technical skill – it's a key to unlocking a brighter future. In this article, we'll explore the essential elements of a compelling conclusion, provide actionable tips, and offer guidance on how to craft a memorable ending that will leave a lasting impression on the reader.

We'll delve into the importance of reiterating the thesis statement, summarizing key points, and using a strong call-to-action to drive the reader's attention. Whether you're a high school student, college freshman, or graduate student, this article will equip you with the knowledge and tools necessary to conclude your scholarship essay with confidence and poise, increasing your chances of securing the award and taking your academic journey to the next level.

Crafting a Memorable Conclusion: The Final Touches to Your Scholarship Essay

As you approach the end of your scholarship essay, it's essential to remember that the conclusion is not just a summary of what you've already written. A well-crafted conclusion serves as a lasting impression on the reader, leaving them with a sense of who you are, what you're passionate about, and why you deserve the scholarship. In this section, we'll explore the importance of a strong conclusion, strategies for crafting a memorable one, and provide practical tips to help you stand out from the competition.

The Purpose of a Conclusion

A conclusion is more than just a recap of your essay's main points. Its primary function is to leave a lasting impression on the reader, reinforcing your thesis statement and reiterating your unique value proposition. A well-written conclusion should:

• Reiterate your main argument or thesis statement
• Emphasize your strengths and qualifications
• Provide a sense of closure and finality
• Leave the reader with a lasting impression or call to action

Strategies for Crafting a Memorable Conclusion

When crafting your conclusion, consider the following strategies to make it more memorable and effective:

1. Use a Strong Restatement of Your Thesis

Reword your thesis statement to reinforce your main argument and provide a sense of closure. This helps to remind the reader of your main point and reinforces your unique value proposition.

2. Emphasize Your Strengths and Qualifications

Highlight your achievements, skills, and experiences that make you an ideal candidate for the scholarship. This helps to reinforce your credibility and demonstrate your commitment to your field of study.

3. Provide a Sense of Closure and Finality

Use transitional phrases or sentences to signal the end of your essay and provide a sense of closure. This helps the reader feel satisfied that they've reached the end of your narrative.

4. Leave the Reader with a Lasting Impression or Call to Action

End your essay with a thought-provoking statement, a call to action, or a personal anecdote that leaves a lasting impression on the reader. This helps to keep your essay top of mind and encourages the reader to remember you.

Practical Tips for Writing a Compelling Conclusion

Here are some practical tips to help you write a compelling conclusion:

• Use active voice to make your conclusion more engaging
• Avoid introducing new information or ideas in your conclusion
• Keep your conclusion concise and to the point (around 5-7 sentences)
• Use rhetorical devices such as metaphors, allusions, or repetition to add depth and creativity to your conclusion
• Edit and revise your conclusion multiple times to ensure it's polished and effective

Real-World Examples and Case Studies

Let's take a look at some real-world examples of effective conclusions:

Example	Analysis
"As I reflect on my journey, I realize that this scholarship is not just an opportunity for me, but a chance to make a difference in the lives of others. I am confident that, with this support, I will be able to achieve my goals and create a lasting impact in my community."	This conclusion effectively reiterates the applicant's thesis statement, emphasizes their strengths and qualifications, and leaves the reader with a sense of purpose and impact.
"As I look to the future, I am reminded of the wise words of Nelson Mandela, 'Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.' I am eager to wield this weapon, and I am confident that this scholarship will provide me with the necessary tools to make a difference."	This conclusion uses a powerful quote to reinforce the applicant's message, adds a sense of depth and creativity, and leaves the reader with a lasting impression.

By following these strategies and tips, you can craft a conclusion that leaves a lasting impression on the reader and increases your chances of winning the scholarship. Remember to keep your conclusion concise, engaging, and memorable, and to always edit and revise multiple times to ensure it's polished and effective.

Leaving a Lasting Impression: Crafting a Memorable Closing

The concluding paragraph of your scholarship essay is your final opportunity to make a strong impression on the reader. It's the culmination of your carefully crafted narrative, where you bring together your experiences, aspirations, and why you deserve this scholarship. A well-written conclusion can solidify your application, leaving the reader with a lasting positive feeling.

Beyond Restating: The Purpose of a Strong Conclusion

While restating your main points is tempting, a truly effective conclusion goes beyond simply summarizing your essay. It should offer a sense of closure, leaving the reader with a clear understanding of your message and why you are a worthy recipient. Think of it as the final act of your story, where you tie up loose ends and leave the reader with a memorable takeaway.

Elements of a Compelling Conclusion:

• Reiterate your passion: Briefly restate your enthusiasm for the field you're pursuing and how the scholarship will contribute to your goals.
• Highlight your unique qualities: Remind the reader of the specific skills, experiences, or perspectives that make you stand out as a candidate.
• Offer a forward-looking statement: Express your commitment to making a positive impact in your chosen field and how the scholarship will empower you to achieve your aspirations.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls: What Not to Do

While crafting a strong conclusion, it's equally important to avoid common pitfalls that can weaken your essay's impact.

• Don't introduce new information: The conclusion should not contain any fresh arguments or points that haven't been previously discussed in the essay.
• Avoid overly formal or clichéd language: Strive for a tone that is confident and sincere, but avoid overly formal or generic phrases that lack originality.
• Don't apologize or doubt yourself: Express your conviction and belief in your abilities. While humility is important, avoid undermining your qualifications.

Crafting a Call to Action: Leaving a Lasting Impression

A well-crafted conclusion can go beyond simply summarizing your essay; it can also act as a call to action, encouraging the reader to support your application.

Inspiring Confidence and Encouraging Action

By reiterating your passion, highlighting your unique qualities, and expressing your commitment to making a difference, you can inspire confidence in the reader and encourage them to see you as a worthy recipient of the scholarship.

Examples of Powerful Calls to Action:

• "With the support of this scholarship, I am confident that I can pursue my passion for [field] and contribute to [specific area of impact]."
• "I believe that my experiences and dedication make me a strong candidate for this scholarship, and I am eager to use this opportunity to make a positive difference in the world."

Remember, the conclusion is your final chance to leave a lasting impression. By crafting a compelling and memorable closing, you can solidify your application and increase your chances of success.

Crafting a Lasting Impression: The Power of a Strong Scholarship Essay Closing

The concluding paragraph of your scholarship essay is your final opportunity to leave a lasting impression on the reader. It's where you synthesize your key points, reiterate your passion and suitability for the scholarship, and ultimately convince the selection committee that you are the ideal candidate. A well-crafted closing can elevate your essay from good to exceptional, ensuring your application stands out from the crowd.

Beyond Summarization: The Purpose of a Strong Closing

While it's tempting to simply summarize your essay in the closing paragraph, this approach can feel repetitive and lackluster. Instead, think of your closing as a powerful call to action that leaves the reader with a clear understanding of your aspirations and how the scholarship will help you achieve them.

A strong closing should achieve several key objectives:

• Reiterate Your Value: Briefly remind the reader of your unique qualifications, experiences, and goals that make you a deserving recipient of the scholarship.
• Express Gratitude: Show sincere appreciation for the opportunity to apply and for the scholarship committee's time and consideration.
• Look to the Future: Articulate your vision for the future and how the scholarship will empower you to make a positive impact.
• Leave a Lasting Impression: End with a memorable statement or thought that encapsulates your passion and commitment to your goals.

Crafting a Compelling Closing: Tips and Strategies

Here are some practical tips to help you craft a compelling closing for your scholarship essay:

• Avoid Clichés: Steer clear of overused phrases like "I am confident I will succeed" or "Thank you for considering my application." Instead, opt for original and authentic language that reflects your unique voice.
• Be Specific and Action-Oriented: Instead of simply stating your goals, outline specific actions you plan to take with the scholarship. For example, instead of saying "I want to become a doctor," you could write "With the scholarship's support, I will dedicate myself to rigorous medical studies, ultimately aiming to serve underserved communities."
• Show, Don't Tell: Use vivid language and concrete examples to illustrate your passion and commitment. Instead of saying "I am passionate about environmental conservation," describe a specific experience that ignited your passion for this cause.
• Proofread Carefully: A well-written closing is essential for leaving a positive final impression. Proofread your essay meticulously for any grammatical errors, typos, or inconsistencies in tone.

The Power of Reflection: Connecting Your Journey to the Scholarship

A particularly impactful closing often involves a touch of personal reflection. Consider weaving in a brief reflection on your journey that connects your experiences and aspirations to the values and mission of the scholarship organization. This demonstrates a thoughtful understanding of the scholarship and showcases your genuine alignment with its goals.

For example, if you are applying for a scholarship that emphasizes leadership and community service, you could reflect on a time you took initiative in your community or mentored others. This connection demonstrates how the scholarship's values resonate with your own experiences and aspirations.

Effective Conclusion Strategies for a Scholarship Essay

Why a Strong Conclusion is Crucial

A strong conclusion is essential to leave a lasting impression on the scholarship committee. It is the final opportunity to reiterate your qualifications, re-emphasize your passion for the field, and leave the reader with a lasting thought. A poorly crafted conclusion can undermine the entire essay, making it crucial to understand how to conclude a scholarship essay effectively.

Key Elements of a Compelling Conclusion

A compelling conclusion should include the following key elements:

• Restate the thesis statement: Reiterate the main argument or purpose of your essay to reinforce your message.
• Summarize the main points: Briefly summarize the most important points you made in the essay to provide a sense of closure.
• Leave a lasting impression: End with a thought-provoking statement, a call to action, or a personal anecdote that resonates with the reader.
• Reiterate your passion: Reaffirm your passion for the field or cause, and express your commitment to pursuing your goals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in the Conclusion

It's essential to avoid common mistakes that can weaken the conclusion:

• New information: Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion, as it can create confusion and undermine the credibility of your argument.
• Lack of coherence: Ensure that the conclusion flows logically from the rest of the essay, and avoid introducing new ideas or themes.
• Clichés and overused phrases: Steer clear of clichéd phrases or overused expressions that can make your conclusion seem generic and unoriginal.

Real-World Examples of Effective Conclusions

Here are a few real-world examples of effective conclusions:

Example	Description
"As I reflect on my journey, I realize that this scholarship would not only provide me with the necessary funds but also serve as a catalyst for my growth and development. I am confident that with this opportunity, I will be able to make a meaningful contribution to the field and inspire others to do the same."	This conclusion reiterates the applicant's passion for the field, summarizes their journey, and leaves a lasting impression by highlighting their potential impact.
"I am not just applying for this scholarship; I am investing in my future. With this support, I will be able to pursue my dreams and make a difference in the lives of others. I am excited to take on this challenge and make the most of this opportunity."	This conclusion reiterates the applicant's commitment to their goals, emphasizes their passion for the field, and leaves a lasting impression by highlighting their enthusiasm and dedication.

Practical Tips for Writing a Strong Conclusion

Here are some practical tips to help you write a strong conclusion:

• Start with a strong statement: Begin your conclusion with a powerful statement that grabs the reader's attention.
• Keep it concise: Ensure that your conclusion is brief and to the point, avoiding unnecessary details or information.
• Use rhetorical devices: Employ rhetorical devices such as metaphors, similes, or allusions to add depth and nuance to your conclusion.
• Edit and revise: Carefully edit and revise your conclusion to ensure it flows logically and is free of errors.

By incorporating these tips and strategies, you can craft a strong conclusion that leaves a lasting impression on the scholarship committee and increases your chances of securing the scholarship. Remember to stay focused, concise, and authentic, and to reiterate your passion and commitment to your goals.

Key Takeaways

Concluding a scholarship essay requires a strategic approach to leave a lasting impression on the reader. By following these key takeaways, you'll be well-equipped to craft a compelling conclusion that highlights your achievements and reinforces your application.

First and foremost, it's essential to reiterate your passion for the scholarship and the field you're applying to. This shows your commitment and enthusiasm, which can make a significant difference in the reader's evaluation.

When crafting your conclusion, remember to summarize your main points and reemphasize your unique strengths and qualifications. This will help reinforce your application and leave a lasting impression on the reader.

• Reiterate your passion for the scholarship and the field to demonstrate your commitment.
• Summarize your main points to provide a clear overview of your application.
• Reemphasize your unique strengths and qualifications to stand out from other applicants.
• Use a strong call-to-action to leave a lasting impression and encourage the reader to take action.
• Keep your conclusion concise and to the point, avoiding unnecessary information.
• Proofread your conclusion carefully to ensure it's error-free and polished.
• Use a professional tone and language to maintain consistency throughout your essay.
• End with a forward-looking statement that highlights your future plans and goals.

By incorporating these key takeaways into your scholarship essay conclusion, you'll be well on your way to crafting a compelling and effective conclusion that leaves a lasting impression on the reader. Remember to stay focused, concise, and professional, and you'll be sure to make a strong impression that sets you apart from the competition.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of a conclusion in a scholarship essay?

The conclusion of a scholarship essay serves as a final opportunity to leave a lasting impression on the reader and reiterate the main points of the essay. It should summarize the key takeaways, restate the thesis statement, and provide a call to action or a thought-provoking statement. A well-crafted conclusion can make a significant difference in the evaluation of the essay, as it demonstrates the applicant's ability to synthesize information and think critically.

How does a conclusion differ from a summary?

A conclusion is not simply a summary of the essay's main points. While it does involve restating the thesis statement and key findings, it should also provide a deeper level of analysis, insight, or reflection. A conclusion should offer a fresh perspective, highlight the significance of the topic, or suggest potential avenues for future exploration. In contrast, a summary is a concise restatement of the main points without adding new information or insights.

Why should I include a call to action in my conclusion?

A call to action in the conclusion of a scholarship essay encourages the reader to engage with the topic on a deeper level or consider the implications of the argument presented. It can also demonstrate the applicant's passion and commitment to the field of study or community. By including a call to action, the applicant can inspire the reader to take action, think critically, or explore the topic further, leaving a lasting impression on the selection committee.

How do I start writing a strong conclusion?

To start writing a strong conclusion, begin by reviewing the main points of the essay and identifying the key takeaways. Then, consider the thesis statement and how it can be restated in a concise and impactful manner. Brainstorm potential call-to-action statements or thought-provoking questions that can leave the reader with a lasting impression. Finally, outline the conclusion and write it in a clear, concise, and compelling manner, using rhetorical devices and persuasive language to engage the reader.

What if I'm struggling to come up with a conclusion?

If you're struggling to come up with a conclusion, try brainstorming with a friend or mentor, or seeking inspiration from other sources, such as quotes, anecdotes, or current events. Consider what you want the reader to take away from the essay and what message you want to convey. It's also helpful to revisit the prompt or question being addressed and think about how your argument or perspective can be summarized and concluded in a compelling manner. Don't be afraid to take a break and come back to the conclusion with a fresh perspective.

Is it better to end with a question or a statement?

Both ending with a question and ending with a statement can be effective, depending on the context and tone of the essay. Ending with a question can encourage the reader to think critically and engage with the topic on a deeper level, while ending with a statement can provide a sense of closure and finality. Ultimately, the choice between ending with a question or a statement depends on the applicant's goals and the tone they want to convey. It's essential to choose the approach that best aligns with the essay's overall message and tone.

How long should my conclusion be?

The length of the conclusion will vary depending on the length of the essay and the complexity of the topic. However, a general rule of thumb is to allocate around 10-15% of the total word count to the conclusion. This will provide sufficient space to summarize the main points, restate the thesis statement, and offer a call to action or thought-provoking statement, without overwhelming the reader with too much information.

Can I use quotes or anecdotes in my conclusion?

Yes, quotes or anecdotes can be effective in a conclusion, as they can add depth, emotion, and context to the essay. However, it's essential to use them judiciously and ensure they align with the tone and message of the essay. Quotes or anecdotes should be used to support the main argument or point, rather than distract from it. Additionally, be sure to properly cite any sources and provide context for the quote or anecdote, so the reader can understand its significance.

How can I avoid common mistakes in my conclusion?

To avoid common mistakes in the conclusion, avoid introducing new information or arguments that were not discussed in the essay. Also, refrain from using clichés, overly sentimental language, or generic statements that do not add value to the essay. Finally, ensure that the conclusion is well-organized, clear, and concise, and that it aligns with the tone and message of the essay. By avoiding these common mistakes, the applicant can create a strong and effective conclusion that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

Conclusion

In conclusion, writing a strong scholarship essay is not just about meeting the word count, but about showcasing your unique experiences, skills, and passions to the selection committee. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can craft a compelling essay that highlights your value as a candidate and sets you apart from the competition.

We've discussed the importance of researching the scholarship, crafting a clear and concise thesis statement, and showcasing your achievements and goals in a way that aligns with the scholarship's objectives. By demonstrating your understanding of the scholarship's values and your commitment to achieving your goals, you can create a powerful narrative that resonates with the selection committee.

Recap your key value points by emphasizing your unique strengths, achievements, and experiences. Make sure to reiterate your passion for the scholarship and your commitment to using the funds to achieve your goals. By doing so, you'll create a lasting impression on the selection committee and increase your chances of securing the scholarship.

Remember, the scholarship essay is not just a chance to win money; it's an opportunity to pursue your dreams and make a meaningful impact in the world. By taking the time to craft a strong essay, you'll not only increase your chances of securing the scholarship, but you'll also develop valuable writing skills and a clear understanding of your goals and values.

So, take the first step towards achieving your dreams by starting to write your scholarship essay today. Don't be afraid to take risks and showcase your unique voice and perspective. With persistence, dedication, and a clear understanding of the scholarship's objectives, you can create a compelling essay that sets you up for success and propels you towards a brighter future.