We met in 2015 when we shared classes at California State University, Los Angeles. Through a mutual connection we were able to keep in touch and reconnect after graduation. We started dating in 2019 and have gone on trips to Monterey Bay, Morro Bay, Big Bear, and San Diego. Patrick likes to visit aquariums and zoos. There is a theme to these trips. On February 11, 2023, Patrick proposed and Maria happily said yes. The wedding date will be 16 days shy of our 5 year dating anniversary.