<s>[INST] After a disastrous first meeting that left a Ph.D. student aesthetically and probably completely traumatized, I am spectacularly failing at making small talk with him. I am nervous and embarrassed about it, and I'm at a loss for what to do -- but I desperately want to make amends and move forward in a positive way.

I know small talk can be awkward, but I want to learn how to be better at making conversation. Can you help me?[/INST]