Describe a person you disliked at first but ended up being friends with
Describe a person you disliked at first but ended up being friends with. You should say:
- Who he/she is
- How you knew him/her
- Why you disliked him/her at first but changed your mind
- And explain how you feel about the experience
💡 You have 1 minute to prepare and should speak for 1-2 minutes.
Who he/she is?
The person I initially disliked was my classmate, Vikram. We met during our first year at university in Delhi. He was part of a group that often seemed aloof and exclusive. I remember feeling that he was overly confident, which rubbed me the wrong way.
How you knew him/her?
Our paths crossed frequently due to our shared classes in engineering. Initially, I avoided him, thinking he was arrogant and dismissive. However, fate had other plans for us, as we were paired together for a group project in our second semester. This forced interaction was the beginning of a significant change in my perception of him.
Why you disliked him/her at first but changed your mind?
At first, I disliked Vikram because he often interrupted others during discussions and seemed to dominate conversations. I perceived him as someone who thought too highly of himself, which was off-putting. However, as we started working together, I discovered that he was incredibly knowledgeable and had a great sense of humor. Our late-night study sessions revealed his supportive nature, as he was always willing to help me grasp difficult concepts. I began to appreciate his passion for our field and realized that his confidence stemmed from a deep understanding of the subject.
And explain how you feel about the experience?
Looking back, I am grateful for that experience. It taught me not to judge others solely based on first impressions. I learned that people might have layers that are not immediately visible. Vikram and I eventually became good friends, bonding over our shared interests in technology and gaming. This friendship has enriched my university life significantly. I now understand the importance of keeping an open mind and giving people a chance, as they might surprise you in the best ways possible.
What do you think of making friends online?
Making friends online can be a rewarding experience, but it comes with its own set of challenges. It allows individuals to connect with diverse people from different cultures and backgrounds, which can broaden one’s perspective. However, it’s essential to approach online friendships with caution, as not everyone is honest about their identity. I believe that while online friends can provide emotional support and companionship, it’s vital to eventually meet in person to build a deeper connection. Overall, online friendships can be meaningful if nurtured properly.
Is it a good idea to make friends who are much older than you?
Making friends who are much older can be quite beneficial. Older friends often bring a wealth of experience and wisdom, which can provide valuable life lessons and guidance. They can offer a different perspective on challenges and help navigate life decisions. However, it’s important to find common interests to bridge the age gap. While generational differences might exist, mutual respect and understanding can lead to a fulfilling friendship. Ultimately, age should not be a barrier to forming meaningful connections.
- • Use the 1-minute preparation time to make notes and organize your thoughts
- • Speak for the full 1-2 minutes - don't stop too early
- • Use past tense when describing experiences or events
- • Include specific details and examples to make your answer interesting
- • Practice transitions between different points in your answer
- • Stay calm if you can't think of a perfect example - any relevant story works