A. Beautiful beaches. B. A booming economy. C. A pleasant climate. D. Discounts for retirees.

Back about 20 months ago I started college and just struggled with everything, such as classes and friends. I quickly became depressed and angry at myself for not being about to do better in school, in addition to lack of friends due to poor social and communication skills.

This went on for months until my 19th birthday. My parents sent me a cake, which was a great cake. But I remember having this large cake and absolutely no one to share it with. I ended throwing out the cake after having one piece, with about 90 % of it leftover. That night I was depressed that I decided to go outside to the freezing temperature of the winter and run. I put my earphones in, went outside and ran about 2 miles at 11 p.m. on my birthday.

When I got back inside I was content. I was proud of what I was able to do. The next night I did the same. I wasn't quick or fit but you know that I went outside and did something. This continued for about 2 months until I finally worked up the courage to go to the gym, where I started swimming again as I used to in high school. A month went by and I started lifting weights and continually running.

Looking back I can see that exercise helped cure my depression but it didn't only do that. At the gym I met new friends and back at my dorm I grew confidence to go to the end of the hall seeing people playing Super Smash Brothers and ask if I could join.

So go forward to present now. I exercise every day and look forward to that hour and a half I get daily to do what I love with people who love it as well. I hope this helps someone who may be or have been in a similar situation.

24. What made the author decide to run at night?

A. His l9th birthday. B. His parents' cake. C. His loneliness. D. His friends.

25. Which of the following best describes the author?

A. Traditional. B. Determined. C. Humorous. D. Generous.

26. What is the biggest benefit of the author's running?

A. Regaining his confidence. B. Losing his weight.

C. Playing with his brothers. D. Joining other activities.

27. Why do you think the author wrote this passage?

A. To recall his life in college.