Solee Kim
Speech 100
September 18, 2024
Small Talk
I never considered myself as a shy person when I was in Korea. Ever since I have moved to Chicago, I have felt like I am an introvert person. In Chicago, everyone I have met so far acts like an extrovert in my point of view even if they are not. I didn’t use to smile at or have a small talk with strangers when I was in Korea. This is a very normal behavior for people in Korea. However, moving to Chicago has changed not only myself as a person but also my perspective. After one and a half years of living in Chicago, talking to strangers has become a part of my daily life, and I find myself enjoying it.
I realized that small talk could make my day, and I have been comfortable with small talk before I knew it. Every morning, I start my day saying “good morning” to my neighbors and people who take the same bus with me. Even when I go for a walk with my dog, my dog and I talk to more than three people on my way and share some information about dogs. I have started to feel something that I never felt in Korea. It’s like a breakfast to start a good day, and it makes me happy. It gives me a feeling that I am part of a group. I hesitated to have a small talk with strangers when I first landed in Chicago. Now it’s awkward for me to start a day without saying “good morning” in Chicago anymore. I feel quite comfortable having a conversation with a strangers now.
On the other hand, I still feel uncomfortable from time to time. People actually just start talking regardless of one’s feelings, even if I’m not ready to talk with them. If someone talks to me when I’m feeling blue, I should pretend to hide my feelings as if I don’t have any problem. One day, I changed my face to smile after crying as soon as people tried to talk to me. In addition, on another day, I had to hear about what surgery the white grandmother’s dog had had in the store, even though I was rushing to get back home after grocery shopping. I thought I was enjoying everything, but I’m still adapting to the small talk of culture in Chicago.
Nevertheless, I have changed my personality since I moved to Chicago. I’m more learning about myself. I have been affected by the culture of Chicago, whether it is positive or negative. Adapting to a new culture in a different country is a good thing for me as an international student. I can use it as an opportunity to learn english. Someday, I will be used to talking with strangers without any uncomfortable feeling.
Hi, Sol, thanks for sharing your story. It reminds me of my life in China. I used to make small talk with my neighbors, colleagues, and strangers. I am an introverted person, but I feel embarrassed that two people stay together without talking. These small conversations will improve your English and communication skills (I'm jealous of you because no one talks to me in English after class). I believe that in the near future, your ability in all aspects will be improved.
ReplyDeleteHi Sol! Thanks for sharing your feelings, even when it’s not always easy. It’s so beautiful how you find comfort in your small talks, and that they’re a good way to start the day. I want to try it too.
ReplyDeleteHi Sol. Thank you for sharing your story. I also feel uneasy and scared when I talk to strangers because I worry they will look at me strangely. I am sure one day you will be able to resolve your feelings and talk to strangers well
ReplyDeleteHii Sol, thanks for sharing your story.
ReplyDeleteWhile reading your story I feel happy because now you can interact with more people. You left your comfort zone and that is very good. I share the same idea with you, without a doubt when you move to another country your personality changes, everything changes.
Hi Sol, your story is entertaining and funny at the same time. Sometimes, you do not want to talk but you have to because people will not let you in peace hahaha.
ReplyDeleteHi Sol! Thanks for sharing your experience. You are an extrovert people for me as well😂. In my opinion, small talk is a good way to drill the speaking skill. However, I just can't start the first step because I'm so worry about the perspectives from the other persons.
ReplyDeleteHi Sol, I enjoy reading your stories, it is not easy to get out of your comfort zone, but you are doing well so far. I learned a lot from your experience. Thank you.
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