Global View - College Life (C0353)

A:  Hey, Jordan, is that you? Long time no see!
B:  Oh, hey, no kidding! I haven’t seen you since orientation three months ago! So how’ve you been? Settling into college life OK?
A:  Yeah, I think so! I pledged Phi Iota Alpha, so I’m living atthe frat house now.
B:  Oh, so you’re a frat boy now, huh?
A:  Yeah, yeah, I know, it’s totally cliché, but really, I think it’s been a good decision. I’ve got a lot of support and good suggestions from the guys. What about you? What have you been up to?
B:  Not much. I’m still living at home and commuting to school. I ended up dropping that metalworking class I was so excited about. It just wasn’t as interesting as I’d hoped. The guidance counselor suggested that I focus on my prerequisite courses so that I can make sure the credits count.
A:  That sounds smart…but kind of boring.
B:  Yeah, it is, a little bit. I joined the Great Outdoors Club, though, which has been a lot of fun. We’ve gone on two camping trips already, and I’ve made some good friends.
A:  That’s cool. Hey, so have you decided on your major yet?
B:  Definitely pre-med. What about you?
A:  I still have no clue…but we don’t have to declare a major ‘til our sophomore year, so I’ve got time! Oops, I’m late for class. Gotta run!
B:  OK, take care! Hey, nice running into you!
A:  Yeah, you too!

Key Vocabulary

Long time no seephrase used to express that you haven't seen someone in a very long time
orientationa class where instructions are given on the first day at school
settle intoto become accustomed to one's new surroundings
frat houseFraternity house, place where members of a fraternity live and socialize
frat boya term used to call people that are part of a fraternity
dropto quit or not continue a class
creditacademic mark
majorthe specific focus of your undergraduate program

Supplementary Vocabulary

gap yearA temporary one year absence from university
thesisA dissertation advancing an original point of view as a result of research
minorsecondary course of study
pre-lawany course of study taken by an undergraduate in preparation for study at a law school
freshmana first year student in high school or university

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