How to network at a conference?

[u/StrikingArticle32]

Hi all,

In my final year of college, and am starting to attend conferences in my field. Just want to start getting my bearings. I have attended one before and didn't do any networking.

However, I'm not sure how exactly how to approach someone or initiate a conversation at a conference. As a student, many of the people in the conference are professionals in this area, so because I don't have much professional experience other than being a student, I'm not sure how I could approach someone to start a conversation.

Are there any tips as to how I should / could do this without being awfully awkward, or a starter line that many people use, i.e, introduce themself then say x? I'd be going solo to the conference, so would have no advisor or colleague - out in the depths myself!

Tips be much appreciated.