Scene to read · Motivation, Empathy
Four hours of trains
You are taking a Saturday furniture-making course with a friend.
You and your friend Obinna take a six a.m. train two hours each way to the course, which you signed up for together. On the platform he has just told you he is quitting after today. Your instructor, Tane, who rides the same train, walks over.
The scene
Tane: Morning, you two. Halfway through. How are you both finding it?
Obinna: Honestly, Tane, four hours of trains to sand one chair leg. I'm done after today.
Tane: The joints start next week. That's where it gets good. And you?
Obinna: Don't stay on my account. Would you really do this ride alone?
The two questions
- 1How would you answer Tane and Obinna?
- 2Describe a time you had to decide whether to keep going with something after the person you started it with dropped out.
What raters look for
- Motivation
- Shows genuine, sustained drive and a clear reason for choices, including when work is unglamorous.
- Empathy
- Recognizes what others feel and need, and lets that shape the response without losing judgment.
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
