<p>Realize that shyness is something that you can change. I used to be very shy --including when I was in college. By following tips about making friends, conversations, etc. I morphed into an adult who can talk to virtually anyone and who has lots of friends.</p>
<p>Join some clubs and volunteer for committees, projects they’re involved in, etc. Getting involved in theater productions-- helping backstage and ushering-- trust me they always need help backstage and on tech --is a wonderful way to meet people. It’s a very welcoming community, and there’s plenty to do.</p>
<p>Spend more time in the lounge and follow DC Hurricane’s advice. Right now what you’re inadvertently doing is telling people you don’t want to talk to them – that’s the message when you just say, “Hi” and then go back to your reading.</p>
<p>Consider taking a ballroom dance course or joining a club that does this. Great way to meet women. You don’t have to be a wonderful dancer to meet lots of women and have lots of fun. Also, there are far more women and gay men who do this, so the women are DELIGHTED to meet straight men who dance. The secret of being a good dancer is to look at your partner like she’s a fabulous dancer. If you do that, she’ll think you are terrific even if you’re bumbling through the steps.</p>
<p>Here are some sites with small talk tips.
[12</a> tips for making small talk - CNN](<a href=“http://articles.cnn.com/2005-03-03/us/small.talk_1_debra-fine-small-talk-conversation?_s=PM:US]12”>http://articles.cnn.com/2005-03-03/us/small.talk_1_debra-fine-small-talk-conversation?_s=PM:US)</p>
<p>[Learn</a> How To Make ‘Small Talk’ - The Early Show - CBS News](<a href=“http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2005/10/06/earlyshow/leisure/books/main917356.shtml]Learn”>http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2005/10/06/earlyshow/leisure/books/main917356.shtml)</p>