Once upon a time, in a horrible and awkward and pubescent time in my life called high school, I was not talented at talking to people. By not talented, I mean I was horrible and awkward and pubescent. Especially around people I wanted to impress, so... everyone.
Sweaty palms, stuttering, and other forms of anxiety would take over my body, so I never quite grew out of my awkward phase (do we ever grow out of it?), until the first week of college.
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The social acceptance fairy must have sprinkled some conversation sparkles into my brain while I slept one night, because, during the first few days of university, I have mastered the art of striking up a conversation with anyone standing near me. By anyone, I mean anyone - whether fellow student, teacher, lunch lady, and especially the campus cats.
There are pretty much three ways to start a conversation with anyone: make an obvious observation, ask a question, or compliment the person you want to talk to.
1. Make an obvious observation.
An example of this kind of conversation would occur if you and a stranger witness a weird event together. Let's pretend you and a stranger are somewhat near to each other when you see a professor trip over his untied shoelaces. The universe literally just handed you ammo to turn to the stranger and make a comment (after making sure the clumsy professor doesn't need assistance, of course). When life gives you a funny situation, share it with the person next to you! Even if he/she doesn't become your best friend, you may see them down the line and can share the whole head-nod-in-mutual-recognition scenario.
2. Ask a question.
Like a girl's dress? Ask her where she got it! Don't know the math homework? Ask the guy sitting next to you in class! Just want an excuse to talk to someone? Pretend you've met them before and ask for their name again - then ask about their hometown/major/favorite color. Asking questions lets the other party have the spotlight so you don't have to think of anything clever to say, and being in the light makes the other person shine.
3. Give a compliment.
Probably the most powerful way to strike up a conversation is to compliment a stranger. People love compliments yet never expect them from complete strangers. If you truly think someone's hair look fabulous or his smile is lovely or her voice is calming, let them know! Not only do you make that person's day, but you might have complimented your way into a new friendship. Not only can you feature something you notice physically about them, but if you know a little bit about this person (let's say they might sit near you in algebra and you've noticed that they always do well on quizzes), compliment their personality or talents! It's no secret that people love to have their hard work noticed.
As we delve deeper into this fall semester, let us all attempt to make new and exciting friendships. The best way to start is by talking to a stranger - observe, ask, and compliment!
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