Blind date

Did sparks fly when Madeline met Sam?

27, PhD student What were you hoping for?

A great date or a good story to tell the extended family at Thanksgiving.

Sam was a bit late but made up for it with his great conversation skills. I was a bit nervous and he really put me at ease. I also thought he was very cute, very open and a good listener.

What did you talk about?

Theatre. Rabies. Ghosts trapped in ice cubes. Nooch. Growing up with Harry Potter. Spicy food tolerance. My cultural adaptation to the UK – I’m from the US – and Maddie the dog.

Most awkward moment?

There were funny moments, but nothing awkward.

Good table manners?

Very good.

Best thing about Sam?

Probably his high emotional IQ – he is a great listener, is self-aware and really genuine and kind.

Would you introduce Sam to your friends?

Absolutely. He would be a natural fit.

Describe Sam in three words.

Kind, charismatic, sharp.

What do you think Sam made of you?

Probably that I was nervous (but glad to be on a date with him) and a reckless street crosser.

Did you go on somewhere?

We did. That’s where the haunted ice cube was.

And … did you kiss?

I’ll let Sam answer that.

If you could change one thing about the evening what would it be?

I wouldn’t have had to catch a train out of London. Conversation with Sam was so easy and fun.

Marks out of 10?

Sam and the evening as a whole were outstanding. So a 10! And – a spoiler – we’re going on another date!

Would you meet again?

We will!