We met in 2014 at Kutztown University. We were both pursuing an undergraduate degree in biochemistry so it was inevitable our paths would cross eventually. Doug chose to sit across from Sam in analytical chemistry so Sam asked if he’d like to be lab partners. One day Doug asked Sam if she’d like to come over and meet his roommate’s cat. Sam never passes up the chance to meet a new animal and we became good friends after that. Although Doug moved to Philadelphia for pharmacy school and Sam got a job in her field in the Lehigh Valley after graduation, they kept in touch. It wasn’t until Doug moved back home and we began seeing each other more often that romance blossomed.

On a long weekend trip to Newport, RI, we ventured out in search of a lighthouse. Sam had always wanted to see one in person. We discovered the Castle Hill Lighthouse on a beautiful stretch of ocean in a secluded area. We climbed over the rocky terrain to get a better look and that’s where Doug got down on one knee. Sam said “Yes!” before he could even ask the question.