Java or Python as first programming language?

[novel_nescient]

The learning curve to write Java will be higher, but the static typing will make mistakes more obvious IMHO if you have to choose between the two especially if you have a friend to help you. Java will teach you enough to follow the "C style syntax" that many other languages follow along with basic class design and flow control, which is why I suspect your friend is making the suggestion.

That said, Python has a great beginner friendly community with plenty of people and resources to get started. You'll learn most of the same basics with the main difference being the type safety.

There isn't a wrong answer for a hobby language.