Washington University is filled with students from various locations and socioeconomic backgrounds and with diverse religions, political views and more. But one thing binds us all together: a desire to learn from each other, gain new perspectives and realize that change is not only possible but also something to be embraced.

Marriage: lives with different backgrounds, different experiences and different challenges come together to create one new community. Sounds a lot like college, no?

For senior Kris Campa, the two are more intertwined than most.

After proposing to his girlfriend of nine years, Shey Olten Campa, the two were married this past summer, and it has been, according to Kris Campa, “everything I expected and more.” From their first date in seventh grade to battling through the dreaded long distance relationship partway through high school to finally attending college in the same city, he said, “everything was there—the passion, the love, the respect.”

Both of the Campas grew up in families of divorce, which has only strengthened their faith and dedication within their marriage.

“We are both very family-oriented,” Campa said. “I always wanted a family where I could stay with my wife, and nothing could separate us—which is what I found, thankfully. I found her in seventh grade.”

Of course, as with anything in life, there have been some challenges along the way. For starters, the approval of family was not easily achieved. Campa recalls many family members insisted he “wait—get your feet under you, get out in the real world before thinking about marriage.”

While it was hard to hear from relatives, Campa understands their concern for financial stability.

“Many times people look at that before going into any relationship,” he said. “If you guys have the love there, anything is possible.”

As far as peers go, Campa said, “A lot of people are really surprised that I got married, but everyone I care about is really supportive of it, and that’s what matters the most to me.”

Aside from the concerns of others, the hardest part of marriage for his wife and him has been setting time apart for each other. With him at Wash. U. and her at University of Missouri – St. Louis, time together is scarce. However, even though their busy schedules are filled with classes, jobs, extracurriculars and everything else being 22 years old entails, Campa said his most treasured activity is learning how to cook in their shared apartment.

Campa’s advice to anyone pursuing a relationship applies to anyone entering a new chapter of life. He urged, “Be open with it and be willing to try new things and make new experiences. That’s the best way to experience a relationship. If that works, go with it, don’t try and stop it. Let what happens happen. If it’s meant to be, it will be.”

Many view college as a time to expand their horizons, try new things and even experiment with new lifestyles. Campa explains that marriage has not derailed this quest in any way. In fact, it has only enriched his experiences.

“She is my best friend,” Campa said. “If anything, it makes life that much more enjoyable.”

Contrary to popular belief, marriage within college is not an uncommon phenomenon. According to a survey by the National Center for Education Statistics in 2008, out of 20,928 undergraduates surveyed, about 18 percent reported they were married.

Never close yourself off to something because it appears unconventional. That is one lesson everyone should take away from college, and the Campas gracefully set an example to follow. You never know where it could take you.

All Photos Courtesy of the Campas

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Kris Campa and Shey Olten Campa show off their wedding bands. Kris Campa and Shey Olten Campa on their wedding day this past summer. Kris Campa and Shey Olten Campa at an eighth grade dance together.