Maria and Joe's journey began in 2016 during the second semester of their freshman year at Texas A&M University. It all started shortly after winter break when two of Maria's friends were eager to attend a fraternity party hosted by a mutual friend. Initially, Maria had contemplated staying in for the night, but she was persuaded to join the outing. Looking back, she's grateful she did. Upon arriving at the apartment, they were met with a vibrant scene adorned with black lights and neon decorations. Amid the lively atmosphere, Maria's attention was immediately drawn to a young man in the corner, donning the classic fraternity ensemble of a backwards hat and a colorful Patagonia sweater. He was dancing to the music with exuberance, and she couldn't help but be charmed by his enthusiastic moves. Was this Joe's way of "peacocking"? Sporting a colorful Patagonia sweater and showcasing some questionable dance moves? In retrospect, it seems like it worked. A few moments later, the guy with the backwards hat and Patagonia sweater made his way over to Maria and introduced himself with a simple, "Hi, I'm Joe Kofman." Their conversations flowed throughout the party, and Joe made his move by asking Maria the famous question, "Do you want to be my beer pong partner?" It was the modern-day version of "will you dance with me?" and they made a formidable team! As the night drew to a close, Joe and Maria exchanged numbers, bidding each other farewell. The very next day, Joe texted Maria, suggesting they have dinner together at one of the school's dining halls, and she gladly accepted. Over the next eight months, their bond deepened, and they became great friends, spending time together with countless hangouts, country dancing, walks to class, and collaborative study sessions (Maria assisting Joe with architecture and Joe lending a hand with Maria's physics studies). By the time sophomore year rolled around, Joe decided it was time to take their connection to the next level, and he asked Maria to be his girlfriend. Their relationship evolved over the next eight years, marked by graduation, the corporate world, living together, adventures, and graduate school. Their bond grew stronger, and their lives seamlessly merged into one. On July 2, 2023, during a walk along the Charles River, Joe took Maria by surprise when he knelt down on one knee (with an audience of curious geese) and asked for her hand in marriage. Maria's heartwarming "yes" set the stage for the next chapter in their beautiful life together. Maria and Joe are overflowing with excitement as they embark on this new journey, building a life and a home filled with love and unforgettable memories.