Reading
University Makes Changes to Orientation Program
Madison University is making a change to the orientation program for first-year students. In the past, as part of orientation, new, incoming students could go on a two-day hiking and camping trip together with other incoming students on the weekend before classes begin. In order to encourage more students to take advantage of the opportunity to get to know one another in an informal setting, the university will now offer a choice of activities: students will be able to either go hiking or participate in organized group games on campus. Additionally, these activities will last one day only, not two, a change many students had requested.
Listening
Narrator: Now listen to two students discussing the article.
Man: Interesting, isn't it?
I wish they'd made this change two years ago when we got here.
This program is gonna be much more attractive this way to lots more people.
Woman: Why?
Man: Oh it's a question of choice.
See, not everyone likes the same things.
The way it used to be, if like you didn't like sleeping in the tent,
well, you just didn't participate.
Lots of people didn't.
Woman: That's true. I didn't go on the camping trip my first year,
hiking and camping isn't my thing.
But you know, I did feel I missed out on something.
Man: Right. Plus, the other reason this is going to work is that you don't have to give up your whole weekend anymore.
There are other things people need to do their first few days,
you know, like buy their books, set up their rooms,
prepare for the first day of classes, that kind of thing.
The big time commitment used to get in the way.
Question
The man expresses his opinion about the change described in the article. Briefly summarize the change. Then state his opinion about the change and explain the reasons he gives for holding that opinion.
