I don’t feel like I can give you literal conversation starters that aren’t super boring or generic (like chats about the weather), without way more context than is possible to obtain at this stage.
But, one thing that did help me strike conversations and eventually friendships with people, was just hanging around campus doing stuff that piqued other people’s interest.
A couple of times it was me playing on my Nintendo 3DS between lectures, and once someone even came up to me to compliment my Sony Discman.
Other times it might be something as simple as there not being any empty tables in the cafeteria, so you ask to sit with someone. If they’re not clearly busy or studying, you might start by asking what course they do, how they’re finding it, etc. These are all fairly passive approaches though, and that’s possibly related to my extreme introversion.
A slightly more active suggestion – take advantage of group assignments! (As much as I hate them.) Make plans to meet up. Get a few hours of work done together then hang out with a few beers or a soda or whatever. Win-win.
I break almost every stereotype from my country of origin… I’m quiet, on time (much to the dismay of people who give me a time 1hr before they actually expect me), and can’t grow a thick/full beard to save my life.
Being an engineer is pretty stereotypical, although that’s true for a ton of Asians, so not awfully specific.
I guess… speaking strictly in silly technicalities here, then the stereotype I “fit” is “terrorist” (on the basis that people where I live – the UK – are getting arrested and charged with terrorism for expressing support for Palestine/criticising the genocide.) Obviously, I’m being facetious here, but we live in an insane world.
For context, I’ve lived my whole life as a ‘displaced person’ / immigrant without a permanent home, so I don’t feel that there is one place that has particularly shaped me or my personality.
Any guesses for where I’m “originally” from?
Edit: I’d actually never heard that stereotype about Filipinas! The only one I know (applies to all genders) is that you guys are incredible singers. :)