It was the last day of the final examination in a large Eastern university.  这是东部一所大学期终考试的最后一天。

On the steps of one building, a group of engineering seniors huddled,  在一栋建筑物的台阶上，一群工程学高年级学生围在一起，

discussing the exam due to begin in a few minutes.  对即将开始的考试议论纷纷。

On their faces was confidence.  他们的脸上洋溢着自信。

This was their last exam-then on to commencement and jobs. 这将是他们求学时期的最后一场考试了，前面等待着他们的将是毕业并迈向各自的工作岗位。

Some talked of jobs they already had;  他们有的讨论着已经获得的工作，

others talked of jobs they would get.  有的则讨论即将参加的工作。

With all the assurance of four years of college,  经过四年大学教育，

they felt ready and were able to conquer the world. 他们觉得自己已经为征服这个世界做足了准备。

The approaching exam, they knew, would be a snap.  他们知道面临的考试只不过是小菜一碟。

The professor had said they could bring any books or notes they wanted,  教授说他们可以带任何书籍或笔记进入考场，

requesting only that they did not talk to each other during the test. 唯一的要求是在考试期间不能讨论。

Jubilantly they fielded into the classroom.  随后他们兴冲冲地涌入考场。

The professor passed out the papers.  教授开始发试卷。

And smiles broadened as the students noted there were only five essay-type questions.  当学生们看到试卷上只有五条问答题时，他们露出舒心的微笑。