“H-O-T-T-O-G-O-”
The lyrics come through the speakers of the 2021 black Nissan sedan, aptly named Jane, and almost through Anvita’s arms instinctively – before remembering that she is, in fact, not at a concert but behind the wheel of a moving vehicle.
She swiftly places her hands back on the steering wheel as I sit in the passenger seat, laughing at her brief moment of forgetfulness as we continue belting out Chappell Roan lyrics into the night.
This is just one of the many car rides I have shared with Anvita throughout the past year that define not only our friendship, but the passionate personality of hers that inspires and (literally) drives me.
Prior to getting to know Anvita, I was already struck by her presence in D115. Anvita, in spite of her small stature, carries herself with a strong sense of professionalism and authority every day of class (alongside a weekly set of dazzling nails). Her work ethic as a writer and editor is what stands out to me the most, being the force that continues to inspire me as a journalist.
As The Sidekick’s CHS9 editor, Anvita is given the difficult task of finding and producing stories that live on another campus, about freshmen who scarcely check their emails. Anvita takes this task and goes above and beyond, which is what makes her consistently stand out as an editor. There has not been a time when I have seen Anvita idle in her section. She is always interviewing students and teachers on Zoom or running off to the CHS9 campus to take photos.
She is the one who encouraged me to reluctantly take on my first CHS9 story, but that experience is what shaped my attitude towards trying new things within journalism. Her patience and expertise have been a guiding force in my entire year, and I doubt I would be as confident in my abilities as a writer and journalist without her.
Beyond being a fantastic editor, Anvita is an even more fantastic friend.
If you walked into D115, you would likely see us sitting in the back corner, typing away on our keyboards while bickering and laughing. The best memories of my junior year have been made with her, in and out of the classroom.
To Anvita Bombdbabda (on account of the single time she misspelled her own name):
Thank you for being the mentor I needed this year, and beyond that, a friend.
Wherever you end up, however many miles away, I will continue to treasure the lessons you taught me and the friendship we share.
I hope, no, I know that you will thrive wherever you go in life, and continue being the positive force in the lives of the people around you — one that everyone needs.
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