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A New City, a New Routine
Writing
Writing task
Before you submit, check: ✓ I opened and closed the email in a friendly, informal way ✓ I described a difficulty and a pleasant surprise with specific details ✓ I gave two pieces of advice using modal verbs or structures such as "If I were you" and "It might be worth" ✓ I used a range of linking words (although, as a result, whereas) instead of only "and" and "but"
Your friend Selin is thinking about leaving her small town to study in a big city, and she has asked you how it felt when you did the same thing last year. Write an email to her. In your email: describe what you found most difficult at first, explain one thing that turned out better than you expected, and give her two pieces of practical advice. Use a friendly, informal tone.
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Model answer: Hi Selin,
Great to hear from you! I was so pleased when I read that you're thinking about studying in the city. Since you asked how it felt for me, I'll be completely honest.
The hardest part, without doubt, was the first month. I had never realised how quiet my little town was until I found myself in a crowded dormitory where the lights and voices never seemed to stop. I also struggled to find my way around, and I must have missed the right bus at least five times. Although I was homesick, I tried not to call my parents every evening, which turned out to be a sensible decision.
What surprised me most was how easy it was to make friends. Everybody was in the same situation, so people were far more open than I had expected. I joined a hiking club in the second week, and those people are now some of my closest friends.
If I were you, I'd visit the neighbourhood a few days before term starts, so that the streets feel familiar. It would also be worth bringing a few things from home, such as a favourite blanket, because small comforts make a big difference.
Let me know what you decide!
Warm wishes,
Defne
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