09.10.31NA
Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? It is often not a good idea to move to a new city or a new country because you will lose old friends.
Sample answer ( 5 paragraphs, 363 words)
With the rapid development of technologies, the process of globalization is progressing quickly. People have become more likely to move to another city or country in pursuit of their goals. Some people contend that it is a bad idea to move to a new place because those who relocate lose their current friends. I strongly disagree with this statement for several reasons.
People who move to new locations do not need to lose their friends, as they can take advantage of technologies in most countries to keep in touch. People can use numerous means of making contact, including telephone, e-mail, and online chat software. These technologies easily allow one to maintain relationships. For example, my family moved from Hengyang to Changsha several years ago due to my parents’ work assignment. Since our move, I have preserved my relationships with my old friends in Hengyang by chatting online; we even see each other often through video conferencing. In addition, as the transportation system has expanded quickly, it is very convenient for me to take trips to visit my old friends now and then.
Furthermore, moving to new places broadens people’s horizons, supporting their personal development. By traveling internationally, one can gain a better understanding of various customs, histories, religions, and cultures. With a broad view, people become more optimistic and active. My uncle, for example, used to be very shy and unsure of his purpose when he was young; he became much more confident and positive after he finished his undergraduate program abroad. He has always said that his four years of campus life abroad changed his way of looking at life.
Though technologies allow people to connect with old friends at a distance, they do have some disadvantages. For instance, when friends who live in different cities cannot communicate face to face, they may have unnecessary misunderstandings and disagreements. Despite these challenges, I insist that it is not bad to move to other places, given the enormous benefits that relocating can bring.
In conclusion, people who move to new cities and countries should not worry about losing their friends, as technological advancements can secure their relationships and moving can offer them great benefits.
(This essay is an edited version of a sample writing posted on a forum)
