Section C

Directions: In this section, you will hear a passage three times. When the passage is read for the first time, you should listen carefully for its general idea. When the passage is read for the second time, you are required to fill in the blanks with the exact words you have just heard. Finally, when the passage is read for the third time, you should check what you have written.

“Don’t take many English courses; they won’t help you get a decent job.” “Sign up for management classes, so you’ll be ready to join the family business when you graduate”

Sound (26) ______? Many of us have heard suggestions like these (27) ______ by parents or others close to us. Such comments often seem quite reasonable.

Why, then, should suggestions like these be taken with (28) ______? The reason is they relate to decisions you should make. You are the one who must (29) ______ their consequences.

One of the worst reasons to follow a particular path in life is that other people want you to. Decisions that affect your life should be your decisions—decisions you make after you’ve considered various (30) ______ and chosen the path that suits you best.

Making your own decisions does not mean that you should (31) ______ the suggestions of others. For instance, your parents do have their own unique experiences that may make their advice helpful, and having (32) ______ in a great deal of your personal history, they may have a clear view of your strengths and weaknesses. Still, their views are not necessarily accurate.

They may still see you as a child, (33) ______ care and protection. Or they may see only your strengths. Or, in some unfortunate cases, they may (34) ______ your flaws and shortcomings.

People will always be giving you advice. Ultimately, though, you have to make your own

(35) ______.