The moment
This conversation brings the whole unit together. Daniel is a transfer student, new to a university in Singapore. He sits next to Mei, a junior, in the dining hall. They start with the usual first questions, then Daniel admits a problem with his schedule. Listen for the phrases from earlier lessons: majors, dorms, classes, advisors and the drop deadline.
The conversation
- Daniel
- Mei
- Daniel
- Mei
- Daniel
- Mei
- Daniel
- Mei
- Daniel
- Mei
- Daniel
- Mei
- Daniel
- Mei
- Daniel
- Mei
Words to know
asks if you can sit in an empty seat
someone who moved from another university
you're happy for someone's good luck, with a little envy
admits a problem gently
students who meet to study together
Check yourself
Practice · 3 min
Round one: repeat every line. Round two: mute Daniel and play the new student; answer each of Mei's questions in one short sentence, then ask back. Round three: mute Mei and be the helpful older student. Finally, say your own version of the first five lines out loud, with your real name, major and home.
- DanielHi. Is this seat free?
- MeiSure, go ahead. Are you new here?
- DanielYeah, I'm a transfer student. I'm Daniel.
- MeiI'm Mei. What's your major?
- DanielEngineering. What about you?
- MeiEconomics. I'm a junior. Which dorm are you in?
- DanielThe one by the lake. My roommate seems nice.
- MeiLucky. So how do you like it so far?
- DanielI like it, but I think I made a mistake.
- MeiOh no. What happened?
- DanielI'm taking six classes. It's too much.
- MeiSix? Actually, most people take four or five.
- DanielCan I still drop one?
- MeiI think the drop deadline is this Friday. Ask your advisor.
- DanielGreat. I'll email her after lunch.
- MeiAnd come to our study group on Thursday. It helps.
Say it today
Use it once in a real conversation before tomorrow. Out loud counts, even to yourself.