I usually try to avoid talking to people older than me. I often freeze up and start over-thinking every single detail about what I want to say, and it is hard to make friends when I cannot even begin a conversation. 

Still, Siri became one of my first friends in D115. 

I met The Sidekick staff writer Siri while working on our first assignment of the year. Despite both being first year members, I looked up to her as a senior who might have a better idea of what The Sidekick could be. 

I remember asking her for help with a camera after I had been assigned to take a photo at the beginning of the year. I was not a photographer; I did not know the function of any one of those buttons. I certainly did not know what ISO was, much less on how to adjust it. Siri taught me all of the basics that helped me complete my first photography assignment, and we have just stuck together since then. 

Although we do not talk much, I know she is right beside me when I need her. Whether we are working on a comic or a photo, it is nice to work beside a friend I can rely on in comfortable silence.

However, quiet does not mean indifference. Siri is uplifting, calm and steady. She’s always there to listen, even when I feel nervous to speak. It is my favorite part about our conversations — with Siri, I have never had to worry about judgement.  I can ask for help, and she’ll give it to the best of her ability without hesitation. I can talk about my favorite webcomics, and she will recommend her favorite manga in return. She is a good friend.

I’ll never forget the first friend I made in D115. Wherever she goes, I know that her presence will always be felt here as someone who made the classroom bright with her smile.

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