Listen to a conversation between two students.
(man) Hey, Marni, what’s wrong?
(woman) Oh, I’m just struggling about what to do. I won an award from the Creative Writing Institute for a story I wrote and …
(man) That doesn’t sound like anything’s wrong.
(woman) Well, it’s a huge honor to win and there’s an award ceremony they’ve invited me to attend which I’m so excited about, but, and here’s what’s frustrating: I’ve got a Biology exam that’s scheduled for the same time.
(man) Uh oh, well, have you talked to your professor about this?
(woman) Yeah, she said I could write a five-page paper instead, and I have lots of ideas and know I could do a good job, but…
(man) But what?
(woman) Well, writing a paper would take up so much time, a lot more than studying for and taking the exam. I have lots of other school work to deal with.
(man) Oh! Or you could have someone else to receive the award for you. I mean, go in your place and accept on your behalf.
(woman) Maybe, I’ll still get the award and the money that way.
(man) Oooh, you won money too?
(woman) Yeah, pretty cool, huh? But anyways, my parents were really looking forward to coming and seeing me on stage shaking hands with the Institute’s president Knoff. I hate to disappoint them.
(man) True, I’m sure they are really proud.
(woman) Like I said, I’m still struggling about what to do.
