College love is truly special—not only because it creates a lifelong connection, but because it’s rooted in the spirit of your school. Once intertwined, it's a bond that remains unbreakable. Did you find love in college? We can't wait to hear all about your College Love Stories (romantic, BFFs, generational and everything in between)!
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We're so excited to introduce foodies Mike and Emily from the University of Virginia. Mike graduated in 2025 with a degree in Economics, and Emily graduated in 2016 with a degree in Media Studies. They now have expanded their UVA pride with two little Cavaliers!
KC: How did you meet? Where?
E & M: We met on a hike with friends in the Charlottesville area. It was just supposed to be a low-key outing to get out on a nice day, and the next day Mike asked for my number. We’ve been together ever since!
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KC: What significance does the University of Virginia hold for you?
E & M: We both grew up so much in our time at UVA - both personally and in our relationship. It is such a magical place with its historical architecture and picturesque location in the Shenandoah Valley. We both still consider it home even though we graduated a decade ago. We love living in DC, and being so close to it.
KC: Do you think you would have ever met if it weren't for your school? Why or why not?
E & M: Definitely not. Mike is from New Jersey, and I’m from Northern Virginia. Since we met so young, we grew with each other and made decisions (in our jobs/life) with the other in mind that we wouldn’t have done otherwise. I think that’s partly why we still think of UVA as our first “home”.
KC: What's your favorite thing to do together? Why?
E & M: Eat! We love food and Mike has become a great chef. It is in no small part due to all of the amazing places to eat in Charlottesville when we started dating.
KC: What advice would you give incoming first-years about meeting other people and relationships/friendships?
While campus can feel large and overwhelming when you first get there, take the time to find people and organizations you mesh well with. Probably more than anything else, college is all about the connections you make. It is such a unique time in your life to meet different kinds of people so easily. Take advantage of it! Never say no. I said yes to a random hike and met the love of my life. Your best friendship and partner is just a “yes” away.
Major thanks to Emily and Mike for sharing their Love Story with us! We can't wait to see your love (and cooking skills!) continue to grow and flourish <3