I see you've disregarded my previous post hahahaha
Actually talking to strangers may be easier than you think - for one thing, you barely know anything about them, hence easier to strike up a conversation.
Asking something as open ended as "What subjects do you do?" can lead to options as:
- "I see trend, do you plan to become a doctor/lawyer/software dev/x/y"
- "What's your favourite/most enjoyful subject..?"
- "I do that too, (ask about common subject)?"
Even if a convo gets to an awkward standstill, all you have to do is be resourceful, and eventually lead to an open ended question/discussion like as previously said (subject question).
Smiling, comfortable body language and a expressive voice (i.e. not monotone or boring) also helps ease the other person into a more comfortable state.
Goodluck!
Also, I'm sure he'd be flattered rather than creeped out tbh (regardless of your intentions - romantic or not), a nice change of pace from the norm of public transport - a lonesome, boring ride of monotony.