Reflective Essay Examples: Best Samples For Students
When beginning a reflective paper, it may appear straightforward to engage in self-reflection. However, delving into one’s thoughts and experiences can be more challenging than expected. Gain an understanding of what a reflective essay entails and how to compose one by studying a few examples. Additionally, discover various subjects that can serve as a starting point for writing with our dissertation writing service.
What Is Reflective Writing?
Reflective writing is a type of imaginative writing in which you analyze an experience or situation by reflecting on yourself. While composing a reflective paper, you will share the insights you have gained or express your opinions about a particular experience. These essays are usually personal accounts of an experience, but they can also be fictional.
Tone and Structure
The act of self-reflection is an individual and subjective process. As a result, the style and tone of the writing also becomes personal. Typically written in the first-person perspective, these essays guide the reader on a personal voyage of self-development and exploration.
The structure and format adhere to a standard essay outline in English writing. It starts with an engaging hook and a powerful introduction to captivate the reader’s attention. Without revealing too much, it offers a brief summary of the reflective subject. Then, in the main body of the essay, it delves into details about personal experiences and development. Concluding the piece, it offers a succinct summary of the lessons learned.
Reflective Essay Examples
After gaining knowledge about the necessary elements for crafting a reflective essay, explore a handful of examples for motivation.
My Little Brother
This one of my favorite reflective essay examples, written at the middle or high school level and discusses the experience of having a younger sibling join the family.
In my brief existence, I have encountered numerous moments that have had a profound impact on my life. Every fresh encounter had its own significance as it marked a first-time experience. Through both positive and negative outcomes, each occurrence has altered the trajectory of my life. However, the most pivotal occurrence that completely transformed me was the arrival of my youngest sibling into this world.
My parents frequently refer to Joel as a joyful surprise. When my mother got pregnant, I was 13 years old and my other brother, Jake, was 10. We were considered a complete and ideal family of four. We fit perfectly into the commonly accepted definition of a successful family. However, we didn’t comprehend what we were lacking until our youngest brother revealed his captivating blue eyes for the first time.
Honestly, I was upset about having another sibling. Our family didn’t need any more additions, and my mother, who was already 38 years old, was considered at risk due to her age. The pregnancy was also filled with complications that turned my stable life into a turbulent rollercoaster, which my teenage mind struggled to understand. However, looking back, I realize that navigating through those challenges taught me how to adapt to unexpected situations that life throws at us.
On the day Joel was born, instead of my father, my mother chose to take me to the hospital. It wasn’t something that was planned, but both Jake and my father were sick with a fever, so I became the next best option. By sitting beside her during each contraction, I developed a newfound admiration for the incredible strength and power that women possess even during their most vulnerable moments. While holding her hand and giving her ice chips, I established a deeper connection with my mother that I wasn’t aware was missing.
As soon as my new baby brother was born, I had a sudden realization about two things at once. Initially, I learned that you often underestimate the importance of something until you have it right in front of you. Secondly, I knew that my life would undergo a permanent change from this point onwards. When he wrapped his small chubby finger around mine, I comprehended the true meaning behind the phrase “happy accident.”
In life, there have been various encounters that have had a transformative impact on who I am as an individual. However, none have had such a profound effect on my perspective and attitude towards life as the birth of my youngest brother. Joel’s entrance into this world completely shifted my perception, allowing me to perceive things from a fresh and different standpoint.
Reading My Favorite Book
You may come across one of reflective essay examples focusing on a beloved book at the middle or high school level.
I didn’t really understand the fascination with books before. I would read them one after another for school without grasping why they were so popular. But everything changed when I read Pride and Prejudice. It was a transformative experience that made me appreciate classic literature in a way I never thought possible.
Upon being assigned the task of reading Pride and Prejudice, myself and several of my friends reacted with skepticism. I inwardly rolled my eyes and estimated the amount of time it would take to complete the book and write a report. I felt disappointed by the thought of sacrificing time with my friends for a seemingly insignificant classic literature.
As I started to open the book, I had a strong intention to dislike it even before starting to read. As I got to the third page, I was very close to giving up. However, there was something about Elizabeth Bennet that intrigued me silently. I can’t pinpoint where, but at some point, my eyes became engrossed in the pages instead of dragging along.
As soon as I reached the conclusion, I experienced a mix of excitement and sadness. The conclusion was flawless, but it dawned on me that I would feel a sense of longing for them. It wasn’t just the characters themselves I would miss, but also the feeling of being immersed in their world.
This was the first instance where characters in a story had such a profound impact on me, and I attempted to ignore it. Nevertheless, after a few days, that feeling of sadness drew me towards the classics section of the school library. The moment I started reading my next classic novel, my soul immediately felt a sense of relief, and I haven’t regretted it since.
I never thought I would claim that a book had a profound impact on me, but in this particular instance, it is undoubtedly the truth. Pride and Prejudice opened my eyes to the enchanting realm of timeless literature, which has now become an indispensable part of my life. Even though it has been some time since I last read Pride and Prejudice, it will forever hold the top spot as my most cherished book.
Here is on of reflective essay examples about communication that I love:
Creative Communication
This sample reflective essay on the subject of creative writing is what one would typically encounter at the collegiate level.
I have always believed that I am exceptionally skilled in written communication. The ability to effectively convey my thoughts and emotions through words and expressions has always come naturally to me. However, it was not until I took a creative writing course that I truly grasped the extent to which my writing needed improvement. This experience pushed me to the brink and made me realize the limitations of my writing abilities.
I encountered a major challenge in figuring out the most effective way to handle my time. Throughout my life, I have consistently been inclined to delay tasks. Nevertheless, after attending the initial day of class, I understood that I needed to change my mindset and approach towards completing assignments. While I was not able to entirely eliminate my tendency to procrastinate, I did acquire some crucial abilities in managing time. Additionally, I realized that writing without the constant pressure of a deadline could inspire creativity.
As an innate thinker and writer, I believed I had a good grasp of creative expression and wordplay… until my professor gave me my initial grade. Seeing that prominent “D” on the paper made me realize that I needed to push myself further and delve into the profound potential of my writing. Through this experience, I not only enhanced my skills in technical writing, but also discovered how to delve deep into my creative essence, enabling me to perceive my emotions and experiences from a fresh perspective.
It was difficult to go beyond the traditional five-paragraph essay and truly delve into my emotions regarding a situation or action. This class on creative writing encouraged me to recognize that there are no restrictions on the number of words when it comes to conveying something. I learned that I can depict a basic action in countless ways, and I became skilled at exploring each possibility to attain flawlessness in my written work. Additionally, I gained newfound adaptability in my writing by embracing various forms of expression.
It is truly challenging to articulate the extent of the impact this class had on my writing. However, throughout the eight-week duration that we were together, my skills as a writer significantly improved. Not only do my words now possess greater depth and emotion, but my writing as a whole has entered a realm that I never thought was achievable. Through studying innovative techniques and exploring different approaches, I have now established a strong foundation and a diverse set of writing skills that will be invaluable for future endeavors.
Finding the Perfect Topic
Finding the ideal subject to write about is a significant factor in crafting an exceptional reflective paper. The chosen topic should encompass an experience, a lesson learned, or personal growth. Additionally, it could be centered around a place or book that prompts profound contemplation.
A few enjoyable and imaginative subjects for introspection are:
How were you affected by a conflict with a relative? How did it alter you as a person?
When you experience the feeling of being in love, take the opportunity to delve into the range of emotions and sensations that accompany it, as well as consider the transformative effect it has on you.
Why is it that the beauty of a sunset affects you?
What makes that particular spot in your house so significant?
How would you describe your initial job experience and what made it significant to you?
Reflect on your emotions during the initial encounter. Was your first date everything you expected or did it disappoint you?
Engagement involves sharing your emotions and reflecting on the significance of the occasion.
In the context of a college class, the aim is to bring about personal growth and transformation. Reflect on the ways you have developed and the areas where you may have fallen short.
Your initial year in college – This marks yet another significant occasion filled with introspection.
Is college significant? – Individuals hold strong opinions about the importance of college. Share your personal encounters.
What lessons and transformations have you experienced by going to college? In what ways has your attendance at college influenced your personal growth and mindset?
What made the vacation so unforgettable?
An unforgettable incident – What makes it so impossible for you to forget? Analyze your thoughts and emotions surrounding it.
The most embarrassing moment varies for everyone, but it always brings about significant personal development.
The arrival or departure of a cherished individual has the power to greatly impact someone.
Public speaking – Individuals possess varying abilities when it comes to addressing an audience. What was your personal experience like?
Did you manage to resolve your first conflict with a friend? At what age did this happen? How did it impact your relationship?
Whether it is a major victory or a crushing defeat, it pertains to a sports team that either includes you as a member or one that holds a special place in your heart.
Relocation – Whether it is moving to college or moving to a different place, reflect on the impact the move had on you.
Assisting others – Have you ever provided assistance to a family or an individual who was in need? Can you describe your experience? How did you feel personally after providing help?
The Art of Self-Reflection
When it comes to writing a personal reflection, it may appear effortless at first. Nevertheless, in order to excel in your reflection essay, delve into your emotions and select a subject that elicits a powerful emotional reaction.
If you find that a reflective essay doesn’t suit you, consider delving into the topic of argumentative essays. This includes seeking information on how to construct a persuasive argument effectively.