The Nurse and the IELTS

       The International English Language Testing System is only one of the tests every Filipino nurse will have to take to be able to work outside the country. The tests comprises 4 competencies which the nurse has to pass for her to be able to prove that she can work and communicate effectively in the country she aims to be. These 4 competencies are writing, reading, listening and speaking the English language. Each of them
        My IELTS exam is scheduled today for speaking in English  and the other 3 competencies (Writing, Listening and Reading) will be on Saturday. My ability to communicate verbally will be tested today as it will test my ability to deal with people in a foreign country.
        This week,I reviewed on my grammar and ability to convey a message. In the test for speaking,  the manner of starting and keeping a conversation matters. All the gestures that comes in speaking my mind will also matter such as the use of facial expressions and hand movements.
        I have been a Clinical Instructor for 5 years but I still feel butterflies in my stomach when taking these tests. I  just hope to keep focused and be relaxed in the whole experience. I believe, the key to a good conversation is being sincere with one's thoughts and merely enjoy opening up to another person.
         I have 3  hours to go before the "big thing". I might as well read some information on current evens and reflect to personal preferences such as music or hobby. Knowing the various interest I have and the numerous emotions that every nurse has developed in her work, I need to focus on one or two ideas and be able to elaborate on them.  I believe, that is the  best strategy in answering personal questions or statements that requires one's opinion.