LMU will forever be cherished by Sabah Harris ’18, M.Ed. ’20, MBA ’25, and Carter Wilson ’19, MBA ’25. The engaged couple opened up about how their personal and academic journeys have intertwined and how they’ve balanced their relationship with demanding studies and ambitious career goals. Their story beautifully illustrates the power of partnership, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of personal and professional growth.
How did you first meet as undergrads?
Some love stories begin with grand gestures, but ours started with a simple act of kindness and a shared love of music. The first time we met was at Founder’s Pavilion, outside what used to be called the “C-Store.” Carter held the door open for Sabah as she and her friend went in to grab some snacks—a small moment, but one that stuck with her.
Our paths truly intertwined later through a dear friend—someone we now consider family—Timi Oba. Sabah and Timi worked together in event operations, and one day, he casually asked what she was listening to. Fate must have been at play because that very night, Carter and Timi had tickets to that same artist’s concert. What started as a spontaneous night of music and laughter turned into the first chapter of something we never saw coming—but now can’t imagine life without.
What’s a favorite memory from your time together throughout your LMU studies?
Most of our favorite memories actually happened off campus—our first date at Jasmine Restaurant & Market, a well-known Pakistani and Burmese spot in Culver City, holds a special place in our hearts. We also loved going to concerts and festivals with friends, like the early days of Camp Flog Gnaw, where we saw artists like SZA and Lil Uzi Vert.
On campus, some of our favorite moments were the late-night study sessions at the library and University Hall—surviving on caffeine, snacks, and each other’s company. As grad students, working together on projects and presentations was a different kind of challenge, but also a rewarding one. Every challenge we tackle together reaffirms that there is nothing we cannot achieve when we put our minds—and our hearts—together.
What advice do you have for other couples balancing love and academics?
If you are in the same program or class, it’s great to work together, but it’s also important to push yourself individually. One of our professors, finance lecturer Amy Komins, made sure we didn’t always work in the same groups, which helped us grow in different ways. It’s easy to lean on each other, but giving yourself space to learn and shine separately makes your relationship even stronger.
Why did you both decide to pursue an MBA, and how did you select LMU’s MBA program?
We both came to LMU’s MBA program with a shared goal of growth—Carter wanted to pivot from a finance and hiring manager role in a highly regulated consumer goods sector and found it challenging to transition into more traditional corporate jobs. Pursuing an MBA was a way to expand opportunities, build new skills, and ultimately work in sustainability—whether in supply chain management or by applying HR expertise to drive meaningful change.
For Sabah, the MBA was about transitioning from teaching into a consulting career. We were both looking to take the next step in our careers while staying true to our values. LMU’s MBA program stood out not only because of its strong academics, including sustainability courses, but also because of its mission: The encouragement of learning, the education of the whole person, and the service of faith and the promotion of justice. These values align with who we are and what we want to contribute to the world. More than just a degree, LMU has given us a community and a foundation for the life we are building together.
Any parting words you’d like to share?
Love, like education, is a lifelong journey—one of learning, unlearning, and growing. The best kind of love pushes you to be better, not just for each other but for the world around you.
For couples navigating school and life together, cherish the late nights, celebrate the small wins, and remember that real success isn’t just about careers—it’s about building a love that feels like home. Tune out the outside noise; if you’re solid and happy, that’s all that matters.
Happily ever after isn’t a fairy tale—it’s a choice you make every day. Embrace your differences, knowing you don’t have to be the same to grow together. The strongest relationships are built on two whole individuals, supporting and challenging each other to be their best.
