It all began back in the summer of 2012 when we were both moving into the UCLA dorms for a summer program. Just as fate would have it, Arnaldo and I ended up in all the same classes! We hung out during the summer, spent time studying together, and had a lot of fun getting to know each other. Then the Fall quarter began and life got very busy- from full class schedules, Greek life (for me), and applying for internships. College life was in full swing! Then much to my surprise, I found out Arnaldo decided to rush a fraternity and accepted a bid! The fraternity he joined was partnered up with my sorority for several social and philanthropic events. Just like that, we found ourselves together again and this time we were completely inseparable.

It was a beautiful day in Santa Barbara. We spent it doing some of our favorite things - wine tasting, having amazing food, and visiting one of our favorite places, the aquarium. As we left the aquarium, we realized we had the pier all to ourselves. It was a beautiful photo opp, so Arnaldo set up his GoPro and we took a few pictures! As he was “looking at the pictures on the GoPro”, ( I didn’t know at the time, he was actually setting up the GoPro to record the proposal) I looked on beyond the pier as some kids jumped around in the water below. Arnaldo then hugged me from behind and whispered into my ear, “ I love you so much”. I turned around to tell him I loved him too and found him bent down on one knee holding out the ring! I was completely surprised! He proposed, I said, “YES!”, and jumped into his arms. After a few minutes, the aquarium staff came out, congratulated us, and took pictures of us. It was perfect! What I thought was just another fun day-trip, turned out to be the beginning of our brand new adventure!