Unit 1 Growing up

Using language

6 Listen to the conversation and answer the questions.

Ken: Hi, Susan! I've just heard you're going to become a boarder, like me! This is great news!

Susan: Thanks, Ken, but I'm not so sure. The idea of becoming a boarder really worries me.

Ken: But why? I think it will be so much fun!

Susan: Well, I've never been away from home and I'm afraid I can't live on my own.

Ken: Don't be afraid! Think of it as preparation for university life, and a way of learning to be independent. You can also turn to your friends, tutors or classmates for help.

Susan: I suppose that's true. But I'm also worried that I might have a different routine to my roommates. Also, what if my roommates aren't very pleasant to live with?

Ken: In my experience, it's a good idea to communicate openly with your roommates and find solutions to problems that suit you all. Communication and compromise are important to group living.

Susan: That's true. But here's another thing: I will have to follow a strict dorm schedule. I'm concerned that I'll no longer be able to hang out with my friends as much as I used to.

Ken: Perhaps you could join some clubs? There are lots of clubs and activities after lessons, and you could make new friends.

Susan: That does sound exciting... But I suppose that I will miss my parents a lot.

Ken: All boarders feel like that at first. How about calling them and having video chats? And I'm sure the weekends and holidays will come round before you know it.

Susan: Thank you, Ken. You've really set my mind at ease.

Ken: I think you'll really like boarding. No matter what difficulties you might encounter, when you look back, life as a boarder will be one of your most valuable memories.

Susan: I hope so! I really want to make the most of my time at boarding school.

Ken: Good luck with everything, and let me know if you have any more concerns.

Susan: Thank you. I will.