When I was younger, I had made friends at local internet cafes. I would come in and sit next to a random stranger playing the same game, and within a few minutes we would end up in the same server or lobby. Growing up, I was often referred to as a tomboy because of my association with videogames and mostly male friends playing videogames. After moving several times, I had been disconnected from internet cafes and videogames itself. However, over time I had gotten back to online multiplayer games where I developed friends at the comfort of my own home. Moreover, I had developed friendships in online gaming communities by watching competitive esports. Even in a completely different environment and setting, I often find myself to be one of the few women engaged in this community. I guess my personal cherry coke is how one shared personal interest can lead to lasting friendships regardless of the setting or circumstances those are established. I still have that one friend whom I met 10 years ago and still keep in touch, but have never met in person.

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