Love isn’t always easy but for senior Jarumi Campos and junior Brennen Conner the hardships of love were a significant contribution to their current, happy relationship.

Campos and Conner, like many couples, faced various obstacles in the beginning.

“When we started dating we didn’t even see each other (outside of school). We just saw each other in the hallway and said ‘hi.’ Maybe a hug if it was a good day. I was still going through some changes back then,” Conner said.

“It was a difficult process because it had to be verified by my parents and my parents are very scary sometimes,” Campos added. “Also, we’re different races and it’s not always easy. Our families are different and we have different traditions and culture.”

Campos is Hispanic and Conner is Caucasian.

But, with time, the couple learned how to overcome these challenges.

“We connected in so many ways. We accepted each other’s faults and we learned from them and formed our relationship,” Conner said.

The couple especially learned to love and embrace the cultural differences they have.

“I love that I can learn how she lives and how her family lives. I get to experience that. They also make delicious food,” Conner said. “And I get to teach her new things about my culture.”

“It helps me see things in a different perspective,” Campos added.

The couple continues to learn and appreciate each other.

“I see something in him that I don’t have. He can stand up for himself, and I lack that sometimes. He knows what he does and takes pride in the decisions that he makes. So, I’m learning how to be comfortable with myself and be like ‘this is how I am so I don’t care if you like it or not,’” Campos laughed.

“She’s very smart. She’s very beautiful and she respects me. She’s taught me how to respect someone and how not to be afraid to say something. You just have to be forward about it and not be shy to express your feelings,” Conner said.

Campos and Conner have been together for more than two years.

“I feel like we can never get bored of each other. We always surprise each other. We always do new things,” Campos said.

Campos and Conner plan to continue their relationship even after Campos graduates.

“I am going to try my hardest to visit her almost every day. I love her,” Conner said.