A college essay introduction is the first thing that a reader will see, so it is important to make it engaging and informative. The introduction should provide context for the rest of the essay and give the reader a sense of what to expect.
There are several ways to start a college essay introduction, and it can be helpful to look at examples to get a sense of what has worked well in the past. Here are a few examples of college essay introductions:
Example 1:
"I remember the first time I saw the ocean. It was a hot summer day and my family had driven down to the beach for the day. As we walked along the sand, I could feel the warmth of the sun on my skin and the salty breeze in my hair. But when we reached the edge of the water, I was overwhelmed by the vastness of it all. The endless expanse of blue stretched out before me, crashing against the shore in a mesmerizing rhythm. I stood there, gazing out at the ocean, feeling small and insignificant in the face of such beauty."
This introduction immediately sets a vivid and engaging scene, pulling the reader into the essay. It also introduces the theme of the essay, which might be about the importance of nature or the transformative power of travel.
Example 2:
"Growing up, I always thought of myself as a science person. I loved learning about the natural world and conducting experiments in my backyard laboratory (aka my mom's kitchen). But it wasn't until I took my first philosophy class in college that I realized the power of abstract thinking and the endless possibilities it opened up. That class sparked a passion for philosophical inquiry that has stayed with me ever since, leading me to major in philosophy and pursue a career in academia."
This introduction introduces the main character (the writer) and establishes their background and interests. It also gives the reader a clear idea of what the essay will be about – the writer's journey towards discovering a love of philosophy.
Example 3:
"As a first-generation college student, I have always felt a sense of responsibility to make the most of my education. My parents immigrated to the United States when I was a child, and they sacrificed so much to give me the opportunity to go to college. That's why I have always pushed myself to excel academically and why I am constantly seeking out new challenges and experiences. Whether it's conducting research at a local hospital or starting a non-profit organization, I am always looking for ways to make a positive impact and to grow as a person."
This introduction addresses a specific and personal experience – being a first-generation college student – and ties it to the writer's motivations and goals. It also sets the stage for the essay to discuss the writer's various academic and personal achievements.
In each of these examples, the college essay introduction serves to set the tone and context for the rest of the essay. It provides a clear and engaging opening that draws the reader in and gives them a sense of what to expect. By following these examples and considering what has worked well in the past, you can craft an engaging and effective introduction for your own college essay.
