TASK 2. Write an opinion essay (150-180 words) about the challenges and benefits of living independently.

You can use the following questions as cues.

- When might students live far from their family?

- What are the challenges of living independently that students have to face with?

- What benefits can students get when living independently?

- What should students do to make their independent life easier?

Sample writing:

When students finish their high-school life and enter the new door of adulthood, they hardly avoid living far from their family to pursue their dreams in urban universities. Living independently can bring freshmen both challenges and benefits.

First of all, most first-year students will have to do every household chores by themselves, such as washing clothes and cooking meals. Sharing their room with other mates might lessen the burden; however, fierce arguments possibly happen when they split the chores unequally. Additionally, financial ruin at the end of the month is also a taxing issue facing higher education students.

On the other hand, once students get used to living independently, they will gain numerous advantages. They can master household skills as well as learn how to sympathetically accept others’ flaws, lower their high self-esteem and complete their duties. As for managing the monthly budget, they know where to buy affordable items and how to save up money in case of emergency. 

In conclusion, living independently might be challenging but beneficial to many tertiary students. They shouldn’t be afraid of its challenges and regard it as a great opportunity to make their university life more colourful.