How to boost your communication skills and find your people at university

1. The Science: It's a Skill, Not a Talent

• Social Skills Theory: Knowing how to communicate is not something you are born with. It is a set of skills you can learn. Practice it like a muscle
• Active Listening: This is the most important tool. Listen, nod, look in the person's eyes, ask simple questions to understand better ("So, you mean...?"). People like this more than perfect speaking.

2. Advice from Experienced People: Two Key Ideas

• Do something, don't wait for the perfect moment. The first step is always a little uncomfortable. Take it.
• Be the first to say hello. Most people around you are waiting for the same thing – a simple sign of attention.

3. The "Small Question" Technique – How to Start Talking

You don't need a special topic. Ask a simple question about what is around you:

• "Hi, sorry, what did the professor say about the deadline?"
• "What do you think about this lecture?"
• "Can you recommend the coffee here in the cafeteria?"
  This kind of question is easy because it needs a simple answer and can naturally start a conversation.

4. The "Regular Micro-Meetings" Rule – How to Make it Stronger

A new connection can disappear in 2-3 days if you don't do anything. You don't need long meetings.

• What is it?: Short (2-5 minutes), but frequent meetings.
• Examples: Go for coffee together after class, walk to the metro station together, write a message about homework.

The Result: 3 micro-meetings a week make you feel like friends faster than one long conversation a month.

5. Summary: Simple Steps

1. Strat talking with a "Small Question".
2. Listen actively. Show real interest.
3. Suggest a micro-meeting ("Maybe we can see that library after class?").
4. Repeat the micro-meeting next week.
   
   Communication at university is practice. Every small try brings you closer to a good group of friends.