EnglishPod

Global View - College Life #E0353

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 at the 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 see - phrase used to express that you haven’t seen someone in a very long time

orientation - a class where instructions are given on the first day at school

settle into - to become accustomed to one’s new surroundings

frat house - fraternity house, place where members of a fraternity live and socialize

frat boy - a term used to call people that are part of a fraternity

drop - to quit or not continue a class

credit - academic mark

major - the specific focus of your undergraduate program

Supplementary Vocabulary

gap year - a temporary one year absence from university

thesis - a dissertation advancing an original point of view as a result of research

minor - secondary course of study

pre-law - any course of study taken by an undergraduate in preparation for study at a law school

freshman - a first year student in high school or university