What really helps me stay engaged in conversations with strangers is directing my genuine interest in their "story".
What drew you to get into computer science? How did you end up enjoying accounting? Why did you choose NYC over Tokyo?
When someone asks me what degree I took, the answer is two words: Computer Science. If they ask me why - now there's a real conversation.
Often, also, it may help to tug even further at that story thread - what background brought it around? What did the parents do? What was the formative experience that created the story?
What drew you to get into computer science? How did you end up enjoying accounting? Why did you choose NYC over Tokyo?
When someone asks me what degree I took, the answer is two words: Computer Science. If they ask me why - now there's a real conversation.
Often, also, it may help to tug even further at that story thread - what background brought it around? What did the parents do? What was the formative experience that created the story?