I know what you are going through because that is exactly how I felt with my first boyfriend. First, before you do anything you have to know who you are. Know your likes and dislikes in a guy.
Then, you have to be secure with yourself and what you do. These are some things you have to look at in yourself first. Like they say, you can't love someone if you don't love yourself.
Or, how are you going to get to know someone if you hardly know yourself? Next, try to get to know him first ask him what he likes and doesn't like. Have fun, enjoy your relationship.
The more you talk to him and if you guys do have a lot in common or like each other as you say then little by little you will become comfortable with him. Take it slow there is no need to rush. The more you rush the more awkward it will seem.
Little things can be very important especially in a relationship. I hope this helps.
You could just tell him... this might sound mean but if I'm nervous and then I find out that the girl is too it kinda makes me feel better...why not be nervous together :) .. actually I like it, it means she likes me! And kinda eliminates the need to play hard to get or mind games. Why don't you ask some of your girlfriends or mom or something too they can prob help you more from the girl's perspective.
I cant really gove you an answer,but what I can give you is a way to a solution, that is you have to find the anglde that you relate to or peaks your interest. A good paper is one that people get drawn into because it reaches them ln some way.As for me WW11 to me, I think of the holocaust and the effect it had on the survivors, their families and those who stood by and did nothing until it was too late.