Cue Card

Describe a time that changed your life for the better

You should say:

• when and where it happened
• what happened
• how you felt about it; and,
• explain how it changed your life for the better.

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. Do you like new things or changes in your life?
2. Why do some people quit their job?
3. How do you adapt to changes in life?
4. Who can adapt better to changes, children or adults?
5. What kinds of things would you consider if you were experiencing a big change, like getting married or moving home?
6. What are the disadvantages to continually making changes in your life?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I'll never forget the day I received an email that changed my life forever. I was a struggling artist, working multiple part-time jobs to make ends meet, and feeling like I was going nowhere fast. But then, out of the blue, I received an email from a prestigious art gallery, inviting me to showcase my work in a solo exhibition. I was floored. Me, a small-town girl from nowhere, getting a chance to show my art to the world? It was a dream come true.

The exhibition was a huge success, and it opened doors for me that I never thought possible. I started getting commissions, selling my art, and even landed a few high-profile clients. But more importantly, it gave me the confidence to believe in myself and my abilities. I realized that I didn't have to be held back by my circumstances, and that I had the power to create the life I wanted.

That moment was a turning point for me. It made me realize that sometimes, all it takes is one opportunity to change the course of our lives. It's easy to get stuck in a rut, to feel like we're not good enough or that our dreams are too big. But that email, and the opportunities that followed, taught me that anything is possible if we're willing to take a chance and believe in ourselves.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

turning point

a time of sudden, significant change

The exhibition was a turning point in my career.

The diagnosis was a turning point in her life.

Sample Part 3 Answers

Do you like new things or changes in your life? You know, I used to be someone who really loved routine and predictability. But over the years, I've come to realize that new experiences and changes can be really invigorating. I think what changed my perspective was a trip I took to Japan a few years ago. It was my first time traveling alone, and everything was so different from what I was used to - the food, the language, the customs. At first, it was overwhelming, but as I settled in, I started to appreciate the beauty of not knowing what was around the next corner. It was like my senses were heightened, and I was experiencing everything for the first time. That trip taught me to be more open to new experiences and to see change as an opportunity for growth, rather than something to be feared.

Why do some people quit their job? I think some people quit their job because they've realized that it's not aligning with their values or passions. For me, it was a job I had a few years ago that was sucking the life out of me. I was working long hours, but not feeling fulfilled or challenged. I remember one day, I was on my commute home, and I just felt this sense of dread wash over me. I realized that I was spending most of my waking hours doing something that wasn't making me happy. That's when I knew I needed to make a change. I started exploring other opportunities and eventually found a job that aligns with my passions and allows me to grow as a person.

How do you adapt to changes in life? I think adapting to changes in life is all about being flexible and open-minded. For me, it's about taking things one step at a time and not getting too caught up in the unknown. When I moved to a new city for college, I was nervous about starting over, but I tried to focus on the present moment and not worry too much about the future. I joined clubs and groups that aligned with my interests, and slowly but surely, I started to build a new community. It wasn't always easy, but I tried to be patient with myself and trust that everything would fall into place. And it did.

Who can adapt better to changes, children or adults? I think children are way more adaptable than adults. I mean, think about it - kids are constantly learning and growing, and they're not afraid to try new things. They don't have all the preconceptions and biases that adults do. I've seen my niece learn a new language in like, a week, and it's amazing. I think as adults, we can learn from that kind of curiosity and openness. We don't have to be afraid to ask questions or try new things, even if it makes us feel uncomfortable at first.

What kinds of things would you consider if you were experiencing a big change, like getting married or moving home? If I were experiencing a big change, I think the first thing I'd consider is how it would affect my relationships. Like, if I were getting married, I'd think about how it would change my dynamic with my partner, and if I were moving home, I'd think about how it would affect my friendships. I'd also consider the practical things, like finances and logistics, but ultimately, it's the people in your life that make the biggest difference.

What are the disadvantages to continually making changes in your life? I think one of the biggest disadvantages to continually making changes in your life is that it can be exhausting. I mean, think about it - every time you make a big change, you have to start over, and that can be really draining. I've had friends who've changed careers multiple times, and while it's great that they're following their passions, it's also taken a toll on their mental and physical health. I think it's important to find a balance between trying new things and taking care of yourself.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

take things one step at a time

to focus on the present moment and not worry too much about the future

I'm trying to take things one step at a time and not get too caught up in the unknown.