Connect How did your love story begin?

It was simple. Each of us walked into our first day of high school and the first class of the day was homeroom. That’s where we first spotted each other. But since we were young and in shock that we already had a crush the first day, it started as a mild, casual friendship. It wasn’t until early in our junior year when we saw each other with fresh eyes and went on our first date. And the rest was history- we never really had a fight or have broken up once.

What is your favorite memory you've shared as a couple?

In the past 10 years, the most incredible memory had to actually be this past February when we decided to go on a ski trip for the first time. On our last day, we decided we needed to face our fears together and go down the mountain. When we arrived at the bottom of the trail, there was an overwhelming mix of pride for each other and ourselves. We were emotional because even after 10 years, we saw that we could still push each other to be better versions of ourselves. It was truly unforgettable!

What would you do with $20,000?

If given the opportunity, winning this prize would allow us to start building a life together with financial stability. We have long dreamed of moving in together to have a shared home for ourselves and our rescue puppy, Daisy. Between student loan debt, a master’s degree, and a change in career, settling down has taken a back seat until we could finally feel like we had the means to support one another. This prize would give us the foundation required to plan a healthy future together.