The decision was made a while back to consider the possibility of migration and the first step to take since I would be applying under visa 189, was to sit for the IELTS test.
I registered with the British Council for a grand fee of $320. Along with that you get to use their website and access some of the practice papers. The papers are not easy and do require some thought! I had delayed practicing because of work and a train of thought that Iwould be able to handle the paper with ease. This was not to be!
A simple trial of the listening test convinced me otherwise. After nearly a decade of not having to sit for exams, I was definitely in for a rude awakening. The good thing about it was, I discovered how bad I was a week before the actual test. That week was put to good use trying out all the practice papers.
Speaking component was tested at British Council Napier Road on the 19th of September. The test time given was 3.20pm. I arrived at 2.40pm as I have a horrible tendency to be late for most things. Stepping out of the lift on the third floor, I was surprised to hear my name being called! Apparently, the tester had stepped out of the room to call out for me himself instead of waiting for the receptionist. I wasn't late, he was just checking to see if I had arrived and was willing to start early. Why not? After all, it's the waiting that will get to you more than anything else during an oral exam. I had my photo taken, stepped into the room and the speaking component began. We spoke on a wide variety of topics after first introducing myself and before I knew it, it was over.
A quick glance at my watch told me that it was only 3.15pm. I had completed my speaking component exam before my allocated slot. Thank goodness, I arrived early!
Hoping I did ok. Fingers crossed.
What has me worried a little bit is at end, Martin (the examiner) (who used to teach at TJC) shared an anecdote about how his friend was an advocate of slow reading, about how he was a sceptic and then a convert. Couldn't help wondering if it was a subtle hint that I had rushed through my speaking component.
What has me worried a little bit is at end, Martin (the examiner) (who used to teach at TJC) shared an anecdote about how his friend was an advocate of slow reading, about how he was a sceptic and then a convert. Couldn't help wondering if it was a subtle hint that I had rushed through my speaking component.
Oh well, like I said, fingers crossed and maybe my toes too.
No comments:
Post a Comment