Guest Writer Koren and Mason first met at the University of York in 2011, where their involvement in Goodricke College life brought them closer. Since then, they have built a life together, achieved career successes, married and become parents.
“It was 2011 when Mason and I first crossed paths at the University of York, both part of Goodricke College. Mason was studying law and had chosen the college for its proximity to his department. I, on the other hand, was an Economics student who ended up in Goodricke simply because the other accommodation choices were Halifax or Goodricke. Naturally, I chose the swanky new halls!
Our flats were directly opposite each other, and little did I know that Mason could see right into my bedroom window from his. Our first meeting was on a Sunday night out — Mason stood on the terrace outside Revolution, sporting a tweed jacket (which I found rather odd at the time). He shook my hand and said, “You’re the girl I always see through the window!” I vowed to my friends that I’d never speak to him again.
But fate had other plans. By second year, we were both heavily involved in Goodricke life. We became Big STYCs (Second and Third Year Contacts) for Freshers’ Week, and soon after, we both joined the JCRC (Junior Common Room Committee)—Mason as Vice-Chair of Services, and I as Treasurer. Together, we even won the Goodricke Challenge Trophy for organising Goodfest. Despite being like chalk and cheese— Mason with his broad Yorkshire accent, and me a private school girl — our time in college cemented a bond that was undeniable.
After graduation, we both secured positions through graduate schemes. Mason joined TeachFirst and was placed in an inner-city school in Leeds, while I began the finance program at Morrisons. As our careers progressed, Mason continued his passion for teaching, earning a master’s degree in education while working full-time. I, meanwhile, qualified as a chartered accountant at Morrisons. Our York degrees paved the way for our career successes, leading to promotions and countless opportunities.
In the 11 years we’ve been together, life has been a whirlwind of milestones. We bought our first house, got engaged, planned a wedding—and then cancelled it due to Covid—welcomed a sausage dog into our lives, rescheduled the wedding and finally tied the knot! Most importantly, we became parents to a beautiful baby girl, and now we’re in the process of buying our forever home.
Looking back, it’s amazing to think that our love story started with a handshake and a tweed jacket. From our days in Goodricke College to where we are now, the University of York will always be the place where our journey began. And as for the future? Well, if I have my way, there will be more sausage dogs and babies to come!”
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