In the summer of 2020, Julien transferred to the University of Minnesota. Emma was visiting a friend, and the friend invited her Tinder match over. Emma was the third wheel, so the date invited his "cute friend" over. Julien nervously knocked on the door, and once Emma saw Julien’s smile and kind eyes, she blushed and had butterflies. Julien stepped further into the room, saw Emma, with bright eyes and a shy smile, and the nervousness faded. We were inseparable for the next weeks.

In 2023, we went to Montreal for Julien’s sister’s wedding. Julien has a family of 12, Emma a family of 5, so it was an adjustment. Because we are so family oriented, we often put their needs before our own. Julien surprised Emma by planning alone time for us to explore: dinner and drinks at a hidden restaurant, climbing Mount Royal, and a night looking at the stars. It was one of the first times we put our relationship first, did what made us happy, and didn't worry about caring for others.

We just got married in June after almost six years together. I’ve always dreamed of taking Emma to the countries I lived in as a refugee, ending in Congo where I was born. I haven’t been back since I was seven. With $20,000, we could take our time, reconnect with family and culture, and create memories without stressing about bills or work.