A Texas State Love Story

Michael and Ariana attended Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas. During their time at Texas State, they casually knew each other through mutual friends. Their love story did not begin until they both attended a football tailgate in 2012. Michael was now a doctoral student at Texas A&M University, and Ariana was a second year master's student at Texas State University. Ariana frequented football tailgates during her undergraduate years, but as a former football player, Michael's time was dedicated to the fields. This time, he was able to enjoy pre-game festivities and attend the opening game at the newly renovated Bobcat Stadium, which led him to Ariana.

While at the tailgate, Ariana was whippin up some burgers on the grill for the tailgate party, and Michael took the chance to approach her to make small talk. Because they were connected on social media, he knew that she was enrolled in a master's program and knew about her strong interest in diversity initiatives. He then asked her how it was going and if she planned on attending an upcoming multicultural conference. They then began to discuss their educational endeavors in graduate school and his doctoral journey. They proceeded to talk for quite some time and eventually exchanged numbers. 

Fast forward several years, Michael and Ariana have created a life of their own. Since their initial conversation at the Texas State Tailgate in 2012, their love has transcended state lines...from Texas, to Florida, to Louisiana, to Washington state. Over the years, Michael and Ariana have enjoyed traveling, cooking together, eating sushi with Saki, watching movies, and trying new things, such as pottery classes, painting, archery, and axe throwing. They’ve also enjoyed celebrating Christmas traditions with both families. They look forward to continuing to building their lives together and creating new memories.