Jen and Matt’s story began long before they ever spoke a word to each other. Back in sophomore year of high school (2012), they went to the same school and even shared gym class. They knew of each other-but that was about it. Jen will happily tell you she didn’t like Matt at first, assuming he was just one of “those” popular kids.

That all changed during the swimming unit in gym class, when Matt suddenly noticed Jen. Interesting timing, right? A few casual conversations followed, but little did Jen know, Matt was already plotting a way to get to know her better.

Enter Model UN: a sophomore-year simulation where students role-played as diplomats representing different countries to debate global issues. By coincidence (or fate), both Jen and Matt were assigned North Korea, though they were placed in different debate rooms. Matt, however, knew there was one moment they’d end up together: the awards ceremony, where everyone representing the same country would sit together in the auditorium.

Determined not to miss his chance, Matt arrived early and quietly circled the auditorium, waiting for Jen to take her seat. Once she did, he sat right next to her…mission accomplished. When a friend called out from a few rows back, “Hey Matt, why don’t you sit up here?” Matt simply replied, “It’s okay, I’m already sitting.” Nothing was going to derail the plan.

They spent the rest of the day talking, and before it ended, Matt asked for Jen’s number. The rest, as they say, is history.