First off, I want to say that I am a dude, not a chick. I had the same problem that you're having. I find that the easiest way to strike up conversation is to ask them their major, where their from, and why they chose UMD. Girls like it when you show interest in what they like, and you get to learn a little bit about the girl you're talking to. If you're still having trouble with going up to a girl to talk to, here's my advice: treat every girl you go up to talk to as if all you want out of the conversation is a friend, not a girlfriend. This approach will make you less nervous and keep you morally on the straight and narrow. And besides, every good relationship has to start with a good friendship. Ladies, what do you think? Good or bad?

Quick edit: cliche: be your normal, everyday self; because if someone doesnt like you for who you are on a day to day basis, why bother with them. You shouldn't have to present the best version of yourself for someone to be interested in you, that's silly. And a little buzz helps too.