Two girls in Europe  

Kyra Balch (11) and Alyssandra Becker (11) walked through the doors their freshman year and had three classes together. Their first class together was third period Social Science Seminar, fourth period English and sixth period Biology. But, what really brought them together was when they went on a trip to Europe for ten days. 

     “The Europe trip bonded us even more because in Europe we had a very tight schedule and there were so many people there that sometimes got on our nerves, but we were able to talk ourselves through rough experiences,” Becker said. “Since it was my first time out of the country, Krya was able to reassure me that I would be fine. Also rooming together bonded us.”

     On Mar. 30 2024 Balch and Becker wanted to go to an exhibit but it closed. They then went to Le Louvre Museum. When they got there, Balch and Becker did not know the directions were in French. They went left and then right and they ended up back in the same room no matter what. At that point they were confused and were trying to navigate where they were and where they had already been. Eventually, they found someone else on the trip that helped them. This confusion was what really bonded them together. 

     Becker had a hard time with friendships in the past. She struggled with meeting new people, but found herself trusting Balch shortly after meeting her. 

     “I value Kyra’s and my friendship deeply,” Becker said. “Our friendship is one of the few friendships I've had that weren’t toxic and I can trust her, meeting Kyra was like fresh air.”

Balch had a friend for nine years that dropped her during freshman year. It was an awful experience for her. 

     “Our friendship is so strong because we share a lot of similar views and we have the same humor,” Balch said.

     Balch and Becker both value their friendship, and were sad they did not have a class together sophomore year. They reunited junior year in yearbook. They both held editor positions and getting along so well helped them. Balch and Becker both help each other more than they realize.

      “The strength of Aly and Kyra’s friendship brings out the best in each one of them,” yearbook adviser Michelle Corbett said. “Their personalities complement each other so well. They are each unique individuals, but such a great team that brings out the best in each other and those around them.”