15 June 2026 IELTS Speaking Part 2 and 3 A Time You Became Interested In Someone’s Life

Part 2

Describe a time when you became interested in another person's life story. You should say:

• who the person was
• how you learned about their life
• what you found interesting

and what you learned from them

One person whose life story genuinely fascinated me was Sudha Murty. I first learned about her through a YouTube interview and later read some articles and books that discussed her journey in detail. The more I learned about her, the more intrigued I became.

What I found particularly interesting was how she rose from a modest background to become a successful engineer, author, and philanthropist. At a time when engineering was largely dominated by men, she broke barriers and proved that determination can move mountains. Despite achieving tremendous success, she remained down-to-earth and continued to dedicate her time and resources to helping underprivileged communities. What really caught my attention was the fact that she never let fame or wealth go to her head.

Moreover, her journey was far from smooth sailing. She faced numerous challenges and setbacks, yet she refused to throw in the towel. Instead, she viewed obstacles as stepping stones and continued to pursue her goals with unwavering determination. Her resilience and humility made her story all the more inspiring.

The biggest lesson I learned from her was the importance of perseverance and kindness. She taught me that success is not merely about earning money or gaining recognition; it is also about making a positive impact on the lives of others. Furthermore, her story reinforced the idea that one should stay grounded regardless of how successful one becomes.

Looking back, learning about Sudha Murty's life was a real eye-opener. Not only did her story inspire me to work harder towards my own goals, but it also encouraged me to value compassion and humility. To this day, whenever I face challenges, I often think of her journey and remind myself that where there is a will, there is a way.

Part 3:

Why are people interested in other people's experiences?

People are naturally curious about how others navigate life's ups and downs. By hearing about someone else's experiences, they can gain valuable insights and benefit from others’ mistakes without having to learn the hard way themselves. Moreover, real-life stories often strike a chord with people because they are relatable and packed with life lessons.

Can biographies teach valuable life lessons?

Absolutely. Biographies offer a glimpse into a person's journey, including the hurdles they faced and the sacrifices they made along the way. By reading about how successful individuals weathered the storm, people can draw inspiration and apply those lessons to their own lives. In many cases, such books can be a real eye-opener.

Why do some individuals become role models?

Some individuals become role models because they practise what they preach and consistently lead by example. Whether they have overcome adversity or achieved remarkable success, their actions often speak volumes about their character. As a result, others look up to them and try to follow in their footsteps.

Is it easier to learn from personal stories than from facts?

Yes, I believe it is. Personal stories bring facts to life and make them far more engaging and memorable. While facts may give people food for thought, stories help them see the bigger picture and connect with the message on an emotional level. Consequently, the lessons tend to stay with them for a longer period of time.

How has the internet changed the way people share their stories?

The internet has revolutionised the way people tell their stories by allowing them to reach a global audience at the click of a button. Nowadays, individuals can share their experiences through blogs, podcasts, and social media platforms, and their stories can spread like wildfire. As a result, people from different walks of life can learn from one another and broaden their horizons.