How to Make Small Talk in College

College is the best time to meet new people, but it can be hard to get through that first conversation. Small talk can be hard, but college small talk is a lot easier than you may think.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Use the person's name. This will help you remember the person's name and let the person know that you're talking to them specifically.

2. Pay attention. It's a bad impression when you aren't paying attention when they're trying to make casual conversation. The other person will probably think that you aren't interested.

3. Maintain eye contact. This will let the other person know that you're paying attention to them and that your mind isn't wandering.

4. Ask questions to get the person talking. Most people love to talk about themselves and you can learn a lot about someone.

5. Inquire about their major and classes. School is, after all, what you're there for.

6. Remain casual and positive. Small talk is supposed to be light. Don't bog it down by mentioning something seriously depressing.

7. Stay on common ground. If you are stuck trying to come up with something to stay, talk about how you like the university so far.

8. Bring up family and where you're from. Everyone came from somewhere, but be careful. Sometimes this can be a touchy subject with people whose past was difficult.

Tips & Warnings

• Once you find a common interest, talk about that until other similarities are found.
• If the conversation doesn't flow, don't force it. It's pretty obvious when someone is uncomfortable.

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