I met one of my best friends while waiting for an elevator; we each realized we were separately heading to the dining hall for dinner on the first day of classes. Since that moment, we've eaten more meals together than either of us can name. I attribute finding that friend partly to that elevator, which always took way too long to reach the fourth floor.

Elevators are the perfect places for small talk and starting random conversations. Weather, food, classes, oddities—you name it. An elevator ride with someone you kind of know can turn into an interesting conversation and to walking to class or to eating a meal together.

I formed many friendships this year based on my travels to and from that single elevator. If it was working, we would joke about how it took so long. If it was broken, we would complain that it was always malfunctioning. If we were bored, we would play music and dance in the elevator. If we felt like redecorating the lounge, we hauled pieces of furniture from the other floors to make a bigger couch with the elevator's superior transportation. If we found mysterious foods and/or liquids on the floor, we would guess at what it could be and what we hoped it wasn't. We all bonded through the elevator, even if we all knew we could get more exercise by taking the stairs.

Even in a workplace, someone who has seen you briefly can offer a simple, "So, do you actually like this job?" And this turns into a five minute conversation about how you're adjusting or the people you've met or how you actually want to pursue something else. You form a bond with that other person. Even if you never see this person on a regular basis, you have friendly conversations every now and then—at that very elevator.

Elevators are an excuse to have a cordial conversation with a stranger. The next time you're in an elevator with someone, offer a "good morning" or "have a great day" because it will brighten their day and could lead to a new friendship.