Letters from the Switched on "Teen Shyness" issue

Switched-On people,

I'm a really shy person. I don't know how to even start what you guys call "small talk." I'm not even sure what that is.

-J.

Dear J.,

Small talk is conversation that usually focuses on something that's not personal and can be a bit trivial, like the weather or the results of a baseball game. Starting small talk can be a little bit daunting if you're a really shy person. Try practicing how to engage in small talk by complimenting someone or talking to a cashier at a store while you pay for your purchases.

Signed,
Switched-On

Dear Switched-On,

Theres a guy at school who i really want to get to know better but he doesnt seem very interested in me. I dont want to be like his girlfriend or anything i just want to be friends and i dont know where to start.

-Anonymous

Dear Anonymous,

If your school has clubs there might be a club he's a part of that you could start getting involved in. He might also be in contact with people you are already friends with. If that's the case, try talking to those friends to see how you can set up a social gathering with the guy. In that way you can talk to him a bit more in an environment with people you're familiar with.

Signed,
Switched-On

Dear Switched-On,

Yeah, I have a few questions. Was "Sandi K." really a spy or is she just made up? Is that her real name?

-Curious

Dear Curious,

That's classified information.

-Switched-On Magazine