speaking part 1

Do you like to talk to others?

Well, to be honest, I don’t like talking to strangers. You know,  the main reason is that nowadays, we often see a lot of news reports on social media platforms about serious crimes like drugging and kidnapping. Even in small talk can lead to dangerous situations. Therefore, I believe it's much safer and more enjoyable to focus my communication on close friends, colleagues, and someone that I have known.

Did you enjoy talking to others when you were a child? 

I’m a kind of person who’s talkative. I still remember when I was in primary school, I usually sat on the ground with my friends to play board games while waiting for our parents to pick us up. Besides that, I loved getting together with my neighbors, and we talked about everything in our daily life. That period was a really significant part of my childhood.

Do you talk a lot to others?

Yes, I do. I usually talk to others because I want to make new friends and build good relationships. I believe that starting conversations helps to break the ice and make me feel more confident in social situations.

What topics do you usually enjoy discussing with others?

I’m interested in discussing trending topics on social media platforms, especially viral news. I’m also really into talking with my friends about music groups and famous singers. Besides that, I like sharing recommendations for coffee shops or beautiful places where we can take nice photos to capture the moments.

How do you feel when you are in crowded places?

I’m a kind of person who’s introvert, so I usually feel uncomfortable when I’m in crowded places. Plus, I tend to be afraid of losing my pocket money.

When was the last time you were in a crowded place?

If my memory serves me right, it was about two months ago, on a Sunday evening. I went to a music concert with my friends. It was such a crowded place because there were about 200 people there. The atmosphere was very lively and exciting. So, I especially loved enjoying this moment with my friends.

What places do you think are often crowded?

Well, I think shopping malls are often crowded in my city. Besides that, tourist attractions also appeal to a lot of people because they are ideal places for sightseeing. In addition, visitors can entertain themselves and learn about new customs and cultures there.

Did you have a bike when you were young?

Yes, I did. I had a bike which was a birthday gift from my mom. I remember that time I couldn’t ride a bike to school by myself until I went to university. Can’t believe it. Silly me!

Do you ride a bike when you go out now?

No, I don’t. Currently, when I go out or hangout with my friends, I usually drive a motorbike. Because driving a motorbike is safer than riding a bike in Ho Chi Minh City. And you know, my university is located far from my house.

How often do you go out with your friends?

I often go out with my friends whenever we have days off, especially at weekend. We enjoy hanging out at coffee shops or watching movies.  It really cheers me up and helps me unwind after a busy week.

Who do you usually want to go out with?

I’m a kind of person who’s introvert. So I just go out with my close friends because when I around them, I feel relaxed and more comfortable. Besides that, I don’t like  getting on well with complicated people. 

Where do you like to go when you go out with your friends?

I love going to coffee shops or beautiful places with my friends where we can take nice photos to capture moments. Besides that, I’m really into enjoying a breathtaking view of my whole city and admire the skyline during sunset and sunrise.

Do you like to go out with a big group or just some friends?

I’m a kind of person who’s introvert. So I prefer going with some friends that I’ve known for a long time. Besides that, I don’t like  getting on well with complicated people.

Are you busier now than when you were a kid?

yes, absolutely. Now I’m a university student so I always have a bunch of homework or assignments.  That’s a reason why I always stay up late or even pull an all-nighter to complete them. As a child, life was more carefree.

When was the last time you were busy?

If my memory serves me right, 3 months ago, I was extremely busy because I sat the exams in 6 subjects. I needed to drink strong coffee every night to stay wide awake and even pulled an all-nighter to hit the books and was well-prepared for the test.

How do you feel when you are busy ?

When I am swamped with deadlines for a project, I feel  really  stressed out and end up being exhausted, but sometimes I am energetic and productive.

Do you like being busy?

No, I don’t like being busy because it makes me stressed out, I end up feeling exhausted. So, I prefer a balanced life.

Do you prefer taking a long break or several breaks?

I love taking several breaks. It helps me concentrate on studying or working. If I focus on a task for a long time, I think I need to take a rest to perform it well. It also puts less strain on my eyes

What do you usually do to take a break?

When I take a break, I usually do something to boost my energy like listening to music or walking around. This helps me refresh my mind and let my hair down. After that, I feel more energetic and productive.

What are the benefits / advantages / merits / positive effects of working from home?

One key benefit of working remotely is that people have a wider bandwidth to take on personal responsibilities.

This means that they can be flexible to take care of their  appointments and errands such as getting a dentist’s appointment or picking up a sick child from school.

Another major advantage is they can be more productive.

a big plus of remote working is limiting unnecessary interruptions  like meetings and office chitchat, which allows workers to focus on their tasks better

Therefore, companies should encourage flexible scheduling so employees can fully benefit from working remotely

What are the disadvantages / drawbacks / challenges / negative effects of working from home?

Firstly, remote workers have difficulty in using electronic communications such as email, chat, social media and other platforms

This is mainly because they face difficulties in getting the tone right. Communications via the internet are deficient in non-verbal cues like body language or facial expressions, which might lead to misunderstandings.

Another main disadvantage is that virtual workers have no physical separation between work and leisure time

This stems from the fact that they often work around the clock and have difficulties shifting to post-work relaxation mode.

As a result, remote workers might feel physically and mentally exhausted. More importantly, they are more likely to lack work and life balance.

Therefore, virtual employees should put in extra effort to maintain positive communication, work and life balance.

How do you usually pay your bills – in cash or by another method?

I usually pay my bills online through banking apps. It’s faster and more convenient than using cash. I also like that because I can keep track of all my monthly expenses .

Do you prefer studying alone or in a group?

I prefer studying in a group. Because we can support each other and if I don’t know about anything, my friends will explain to me.

Do you think small classes are better than large ones?

Absolutely, yes. In smaller classes, teachers can manage students more effectively and give them more attention. For example, when there are fewer students, it’s easier for the teacher to support everyone instead of focusing on the big group.

 Do you like art?

Yes, I do. I once took a course at the Art Academy, and I really enjoyed it. I especially liked painting and drawing, because they helped me relax and refresh my mind after learning at school.

Did you learn art at school?

Yes, I did, but only basic things. So later, I joined an Art class, which included painting and drawing, so it was more structured.

What kind of art do you enjoy most?

I prefer practical art, especially painting. I’m not very good at sculpture, although I know some courses like Sculpture Workshop let students work with different sculpting materials.

Do you think hobby is expensive? or Is your hobby an expensive one?

It really depends on the hobby. Some activities, like reading or jogging, don’t cost much. However, others, such as photography or learning a musical instrument, can be quite expensive because of equipment and course fees.

Do you think art should be a compulsory subject in schools?

I think art should be a compulsory subject in schools because it helps students enhance their creativity and imagination. I also believe that this is the best way for them to reduce stress during classes.

Why do some parents pay for private art academies?

I think many parents believe that private academies offer better supervision and structured learning. For example, some classes may have a teacher and two assistants, which ensures more individual attention. Although the cost per month can be high, some families are willing to pay for higher-quality education.

Do you think creative subjects are valued enough in modern society?

Not really. In many countries, subjects like math and science are prioritized because they are linked to career prospects. However, creative fields such as art play an important role in innovation and mental well-being. Without creativity, societies may struggle to adapt and develop new ideas.

Do you think insurance is necessary?

Definitely yes. Even if someone doesn’t suffer from any medical conditions, unexpected problems can happen. So, i think insurance provides peace of mind.

Do you prefer basic or comprehensive services?

Well, it really depends on my situation. On the one hand, comprehensive plans cover everything, which gives me peace of mind. On the other hand, if I’m on a tight budget, basic coverage is usually enough for me.

Have you ever had a medical check-up?

Yes, I had a check-up not long ago, and thankfully everything was fine. So at the moment, I don’t have any serious health concerns. However, I still believe regular check-ups are important in the long run.

Do you have any hobbies?

Absolutely yes. Recently, I’ve taken up photography as a side project. At first, I just wanted find something relaxing after work, but it slowly pulled me in. Now I really enjoy capturing small moments in daily life.

What do you usually do in your free time?

In my free time, I often kick back and binge watch my favorite a series of films. Sometimes I totally lose track of time without realizing it’s already midnight. It’s my way of switching off after a long day.

Did you have any hobbies when you were a child?

When I was younger, I really got into drawing and painting. I didn’t take any formal classes. I just picked up techniques by watching YouTube videos. It was something I genuinely enjoyed after school.

Is it important to have a hobby?

Definitely yes. Having a hobby gives you something positive to focus on outside work. For example, when I work on my side project, I feel more productive and less stressed. It helps me maintain a better work–life balance.

Do you prefer hobbies you do alone or with other people?

It depends on my mood. Sometimes I like hanging out with friends and joining in group activities like board games. But other times, I prefer something quiet that allows me to recharge my energy and refresh my mind.

Have your hobbies changed over time?

Yes, quite a lot. I used to only binge watch shows, but recently I decided to try out new activities like learning piano. I feel it’s more rewarding when I can actually build a skill.

Would you like to try any new hobby in the future?

Yes, I’d love to try out pottery. I think once I get into it, I might completely lose track of time because it seems very calming and creative.

Do you think having free time is important? Why or why not?

To my mind, having free time is important because it helps me reduce stress and maintain a healthy work–life balance. Moreover, it gives me a strong sense of personal joy.

What kind of activities do you find most relaxing?

Well, It definitely do gym. I find it relaxing. Plus, it also helps me recharge my energy and refresh my mind.

Who do you usually spend your weekends with?

Well, I would say that I spend my weekends with my family and close friends. But actually/ but to be honest, I’m a kind of person who’s an introvert so that is the reason why I would love to live alone. So other weekends I love spending time going to the bookstore by myself to explore more books.

What do you do on the weekends?

Well, most of the time, I stay at home to relax and chill out on the sofa or binge watch my favorite film. However, I sometimes go shopping with my mom or do gym to keep fit.

Do you like to listen to music?

Definitely, yes. I usually listen to music when I’m studying, doing housework, or before going to bed. It helps me relax and fall asleep more easily, especially after a long day.

When do you listen to music?

I usually listen to music when I’m studying, doing housework, or before going to bed. It helps me relax and fall asleep more easily after a long day.

Do you think it is necessary to teach music as a subject?

I think music should be a compulsory subject in schools because it helps students enhance their creativity and imagination. I also believe that this is the best way for them to reduce stress during classes.

How often do you take a break?

I tend to take a five-minute break after working for 1 hour or 2 hours. For me, If I focus on a task for a long time, I need to take a rest to perform it well. This also puts less strain on my eyes.

Do you take a nap when you have a rest?

Absolutely, yes. I take a short nap almost every day, especially in the evening. This helps me boost my energy and stay awake for the rest of the day.

How do you feel after taking a nap?

After napping, I feel more energetic and concentrate on studying or working. But if I sleep too long, I might feel a bit uncomfortable and sluggish

Did you like studying science when you were at school? Why/Why not?

Yes, I did, although it wasn't my favourite subject. I enjoyed lessons that included scientific experiments because they were much more interesting than simply learning theoretical knowledge from textbooks. Those practical lessons made it easier for me to understand how science works in everyday life.

What do you remember about your science teachers at school?

What I remember most is that my science teachers could explain concepts clearly, which made even difficult lessons easier to understand. They also encouraged us to ask questions whenever we were curious about something instead of just memorising facts.

How interested are you in science now? Why/Why not?

I would say I am moderately interested in science now, especially topics related to human health and the environment. I often read articles about scientific breakthroughs and new innovations, as they have a direct impact on our daily lives.

When did you start to learn science?

If my memory serves me right, I started learning science in primary school when I was around six or seven years old. At that time, the lessons were quite basic and focused on fundamental concepts, which helped build a strong foundation for more advanced study later on.

Do you think science classes are important?

Yes, | strongly believe science classes are essential because they equip students with critical thinking skills and encourage them to explore the world around them. Moreover, science plays a crucial role in solving global issues, so having a basic understanding of it is extremely valuable.

Have you ever had a pet before?

Yes, I have. When I was a child, my family kept a few goldfish because they were much easier to look after than dogs or cats. They didn't take up much space or require constant attention, so they were a good choice for my family. Even so, I needed to feed them every day, which taught me to be more responsible.

What's your favorite animal? Why?

My favorite animal is the dog because they are extremely loyal companions and are always full of energy. | really admire their ability to form strong emotional bonds with humans, which makes them not only pets but also true family members.

Where do you prefer to keep your pet, indoors or outdoors?

I would prefer to keep my pet indoors because it is much safer and allows me to keep a close eye on them. Living inside also helps pets feel more comfortable and secure, especially in busy urban areas where there are many potential dangers outside.

Why do some people keep pets at home?

Many people keep pets because they provide emotional support and help reduce feelings of loneliness. In addition, taking care of a pet can give people a sense of responsibility and bring more joy and companionship into their lives.

What is the most popular animal in your country?

In my country, dogs are probably the most popular pets because they are highly adaptable and can live in different environments. They are also known for being protective and friendly. which makes them a great choice for many families.

What’s the most popular means of transportation in your hometown?

In my area, motorbikes are the most popular means of transportation because they are highly convenient and can easily move through heavy traffic. With the narrow streets and frequent congestion, motorbikes are often the most practical choice for daily commuting.

How often do you take buses?

Actually, I rarely take buses because they are very time-consuming and can be quite crowded during peak hours. However, I occasionally use them when | want to save money on transportation or avoid driving in busy areas.

What kind of public transportation do you usually take?

WhenI use public transport, I usually take the bus because it is the most accessible and affordable option. Although it may not be the fastest, it is still a reliable way to get around the city.

Do most people prefer public transportation in your country?

Not really. Most people in my country still prefer private transportation, especially motorbikes, because it offers more flexibility and independence. Although public transport systems are improving, they are not yet fully developed or widely used.

Did you take public transportation when you were a kid?

Yes, sometimes, | took the bus when I was a child, especially when traveling with my family. It was quite an interesting experience because I could observe and communicate with different people and learn how to be more confident.

Do you prefer public transportation or private transportation?

I personally prefer private transportation because it allows me to have full control over my schedule and travel more comfortably. However, I recognize that public transport is more environmentally friendly and helps reduce traffic congestion.

Do you have a favorite teacher?

Yes, I do. My favourite teacher was my Biology teacher in high school, who was passionate about teaching. She could explain concepts clearly, which made Biology one of my favourite subjects and inspired me to study Pharmacy at university.

Which teacher do you prefer, the one from primary school or the one from junior high school?

I'd say my junior high school teachers had a greater influence on me because that was when I became more serious about my studies. They were very patient and always encouraged students to ask questions whenever we didn't understand something.

Do you still keep in touch with your former teachers?

Yes, but not very often. I sometimes send them messages on special days such as Vietnamese Teachers' Day or the Lunar New Year to thank them for everything they taught me. Although we don't talk regularly, I'm always grateful for their support.

Is it easy to remember your teachers in elementary school?

Yes, definitely. I still remember my primary school teachers because they were very kind and approachable, which made school an enjoyable place for me. They always encouraged us instead of putting too much pressure on us.

Did you want to be a teacher when you were young?

Growing up, I really didn't have a dream of becoming a teacher because I am more interested in the Health care field. Apart from that, I am an introverted person, which is why I became a Pharmacy student.

Do you think teachers are different now than when your parents were at school?

Yes, I think so. Nowadays, teachers use more technology in class, which makes lessons more engaging. They also encourage students to discuss ideas instead of simply memorising information, so learning has become much more interactive.