After calling my friend and connecting her with Jia, I finally got around to talking to my conversation partner, Jongoux, who is from South Korea. He is a second-year electrical engineering student--I think he kept trying to say "sophomore," but when I said "sophomore" to help him along, he didn't seem to understand. Conversation started pretty smoothly, especially considering the fact that this is only his third month in the States. He has never traveled to another country before, and here he is, living in a foreign country for nine months! I'd say that's pretty adventurous.
He was eager to volunteer questions, including when we could meet regularly. Once we established a place and time, I asked him what he would like to do during our time--and that's when the conversation became foggy. I tried to explain the expression "play it by ear"--which I immediately recognized wasn't going to work--and then tried to save myself by saying that we would just be "spontaneous"--I was just digging a hole at this point. Somehow or other, the fog was lifted--I think we just switched topics entirely. Whew! He asked me the classic "What is your hobby?" question--I've always found it strange to answer, for some reason--I told him, "writing and singing, mostly, I guess." I found out that he plays the guitar (and wishes he could sing), and now the idea of teaching him some songs in English kind of won't leave my mind....that could be fun.
In short, we had a great first meeting. I would like to see him more comfortable and relaxed, and definitely want to learn more about his interests to fuel some conversations (steering away from the Q&A format). He's also keen on my help with regards to his writing, since he found out that I was a writing major.
Sounds like you had almost the whole spectrum of emotions here ;) These first meetings will usually be like this, both of you trying to figure each other out. Sounds like you are off to a great start!
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