In February 2015, Jessie & Sean met. Jessie was a first-year kindergarten teacher at an elementary school in Carbondale, Illinois, and Sean was in his fifth year at Southern Illinois University Carbondale. Sean was knowledgeable about the area and enjoyed showing friends the places he had discovered whereas Jessie was the new girl in town and interested in making new friends. They met after Jessie's friend convinced her to download the app, Tinder. One of the first messages Jessie received was from Sean, who said, "I have nothing but nice things to say to you." Jessie thought that was unique, but she remained hesitant about messaging strangers on an app, so she did not respond immediately. Sean decided not to give up and messaged her again the next day. Finally, Jessie decided to give him a chance since he seemed genuine. The two connected immediately; communicating constantly for a week before their first date. On Friday, February 27th, Sean received the good news that he earned an internship with the Southern Illinois Miners. That was the first of many good things to come that day. In the evening, Sean picked Jessie up to go to dinner, accompanied with the most beautiful flower arrangement Jessie had ever seen. Jessie thought the date could end right then and it still would have been perfect. Sean brought Jessie to The Newell House for dinner and their conversation never dulled. They shared their lives with each other and developed a deeper connection. Sean did not want the night to end afterward, so he asked Jessie if she would accompany him to a movie as well. Jessie happily obliged. They decided to see the movie, "Focus", and while the previews played, Jessie asked Sean what he was truly looking for in life. Sean thought for a moment and said, "Honestly...you." Needless to say, the two were officially in a relationship by their second date and could not have been happier.