Scene to read · Motivation, Self-awareness
Am I a fool to keep going?
You are studying in a public library reading room for the same college entrance exam that the stranger beside you is preparing for.
Sunita, 58, a stranger at your table who runs a small tailoring shop, has sat this exam three times and has just pushed her thick folder of notes toward you. Jocelyn, 70, the longtime librarian who knows her, has stopped shelving nearby and is looking at you. You know only what the two of them say in front of you.
The scene
Sunita: Take my notes, please. Fourth try at fifty-eight. Am I a fool to keep going?
Jocelyn: You've studied here every evening for three years. Your essays finally work.
Sunita: My sister covers my shop every Saturday. My sons say it's embarrassing.
Jocelyn: Sunita, stopping now wouldn't be failing. But three years is a lot to leave.
The two questions
- 1Sunita has asked whether she is a fool to keep going and is still holding out her notes. What would you say and do, and why?
- 2Describe a time you had to decide whether to keep going with something that was costing you or others a lot. How did you decide?
What raters look for
- Motivation
- Shows genuine, sustained drive and a clear reason for choices, including when work is unglamorous.
- Self-awareness
- Recognizes own biases, limits and emotions, and seeks and uses feedback.
Answer scenarios like this on the real timers
Answer both questions on the clock, and get each one scored 1–9 the way raters score. Your first set is free, no card.
Practice free
