Writing a reflective essay

So what is a reflective essay?

-A chance to think-A chance to show-A chance to grow

Introduction• An overview • Short paragraph• Sets the stage

Background• Why did you choose this topic?• Prior knowledge of topic• Goals you hoped to achieve

Ponder, ponder, ponder

Research Process• How and where did you find information?• What was your plan of attack?• Did you change directions?

Obstacles • What problems did you face?• How did you overcome?

Lessons learned• Personal and academic• Relate back to things mentioned • Show don’t tell / give examples

The future• Did you meet your goals?• How will you use what you learned?• What will you take away from this experience?

Conclusion• Sum up your experience• Parting wisdom

Tips• Brainstorm• Organize your thoughts• First draft• Give it some time• Revise• Check for errors• Final copy

Final Thoughts• First person voice• Formal but not stuffy• You get out what you put in