A cool, not corny, closing

[renwod90]

Do I need a closing? Can't I just end my sop by talking about a professor I would like to work with? Did anyone else employ this method? Or must I write something like "I feel my skills would be an asset to your university." This type of closing is just so common and doesn't flow with my sop. What type of closing, if any, did you guys choose to go with? Thanks!

[Ablukhov]

I was literally just staring at my SoP and trying to write a closing before I saw your post. Last year I just ended sort of vaguely talking  about who I wanted to work with, like you mentioned. While I'm positive that wasn't the reason for my lack of success, this year I'm thinking that it would be a much more satisfying essay if it had an actual ending. I don't think I can offer any advice on what your ending should be, but I think a conclusion is better than no conclusion.

[languages-etc]

How about just one sentence that avoids being corny, but just sums it all up, like "I look forward to studying under Professor X and bringing my _________ (passion/experience/whatever) to your department." 

[renwod90]

Thank you - Yes I agree, something is better than nothing. I suppose we are all in the same boat and must put something down on the page whether we are in love with it or not!

[Ablukhov]

Slavic programs must have some of the latest due dates in the world of academia, but we're almost there renwod! Almost there! Good luck!

[renwod90]

Thank you Ablukhov!Same to you! Yes, my three "big boys" are due this weekend!

[anaZep]

I wrote my SOP's like actual essays, and i think essays typically have intros, bodies (arguments, main ideas -- some sort of flow of content) and conclusions.  so yes, i'd definitely include a conclusion, tying back to something stated in the opening paragraph.  doesn't have to be earth shattering; it can be simple, but genuine, positive, and logical.

[bamafan]

Thank the committee.