While these neat resolutions might seem appealing, they often ring false to admissions officers who understand the complex nature of personal growth and healing.

The truth is, life rarely offers such tidy conclusions. Many of the challenges and experiences you write about in your college essays are likely still ongoing parts of your journey. And that's perfectly okay! In fact, acknowledging this can make your essay more authentic and relatable.

Here's why it's alright to leave some loose ends in your essay:

• It demonstrates self-awareness and honesty
• It shows maturity in recognizing that personal growth is an ongoing process
• It allows for a more nuanced and realistic portrayal of your experiences
• It can make your essay more relatable to readers

Instead of forcing a perfect resolution, focus on showcasing your growth, resilience, and ability to reflect. It's perfectly acceptable—and often more impactful—to write about:

• The progress you've made, even if the journey isn't complete
• The insights you've gained, even if you're still processing the experience
• The strategies you're developing to face ongoing challenges
• Your evolving perspective on a situation, even if you don't have all the answers yet

For example, an essay about managing anxiety might conclude with something like: "While I still experience anxiety, I've learned to recognize its patterns and develop strategies to cope. Some days are easier than others, but each challenge I face helps me understand myself better and builds my resilience. I'm learning that it's okay to not have everything figured out, and I'm committed to continuing this journey of self-discovery and growth."

Remember, admissions officers aren't looking for perfect individuals who have it all figured out. They're interested in authentic, reflective students who can articulate their experiences and demonstrate personal growth—even if that growth is still in progress.

The key is to choose a topic where you can genuinely show some growth or development. While it's okay to write about ongoing challenges, it's important to have enough distance from the experience to reflect meaningfully on it. You may want to steer clear of topics that are so recent or emotionally raw that you haven't had the chance to process, learn from, or grow from them yet.

For instance, writing about a conflict that happened last week might not give you enough perspective to demonstrate reflection and growth. On the other hand, discussing how you've been working through a challenge over the past year could provide rich material for showcasing your evolving understanding and personal development.

Ultimately, your essay should illustrate your capacity for self-reflection and your willingness to learn and grow. It doesn't need a perfect ending—just an honest portrayal of where you are in your journey and how you're continuing to evolve.

Get Expert Help with Your College Essays and Resume

If you're feeling overwhelmed by the college essay writing process or want to ensure that your essays and resume stand out, College MatchPoint is here to help. Our experienced essay coaches and resume experts work one-on-one with students to help them craft compelling, authentic narratives that showcase their unique strengths and experiences.

Our essay and resume program offers personalized guidance and support throughout the entire process, from brainstorming to final edits. We understand that every student's journey is different, and we tailor our approach to meet your individual needs and goals.

If you're interested in learning more about how College MatchPoint can help your student create essays and a resume that truly shine, we invite you schedule a  complimentary consultation and tell us about your student.