It all started in 2019. We met during our first year of optometry school, both a little nervous, surrounded by new faces, endless lectures, and a new city. Brandon noticed Nia right away during orientation week—her calm confidence and quick wit in a sea of nerves made her stand out. Nia, on the other hand, remembers Brandon from their anatomy lectures—a kind smile, always ready to lend a hand, and constantly cracking jokes to lighten the mood. Our friendship started over group study sessions, quizzing each other before exams and celebrating small victories (like surviving our first practical in the middle of COVID!). As we spent more time together, we realized we were not just seeing eye to eye on schoolwork—we were genuinely drawn to each other. What started as study partners turned into something more. Somewhere between clinics and class presentations, we found not just a partner in optometry, but a partner in life. Now, years later, we’re so excited to take the next step together—and we’re thrilled to share this moment with all of you!