To Have & To Hold

Alan Shen and Nicole Buturla’s love story began at UC Berkeley, where they met through the pre-health sorority KGD and the brother fraternity SMD. Their first “date” was a casual study session that turned into an impromptu dinner at Thai Noodle II after Nicole suggested grabbing a bite to eat. While Nicole sees this as their first date, Alan insists the real beginning was still to come. But from that moment on, they clicked, and their connection only grew, leading them on a journey that would span cities, cultures, and years of adventure. When COVID hit, they moved in together in San Francisco, where they navigated the early days of the pandemic side by side. Soon after, they began a three-year period of long-distance love, with Nicole in Phoenix and later Chicago, and Alan in San Francisco and then Cleveland. Despite the distance, they traveled often to be with each other while tackling the demands of medical school. Finally, they reunited in Cleveland, ready to build a home together. Throughout their journey, they’ve supported each other through every challenge and celebrated each success. Coming from Chinese and Polish backgrounds, they share a deep bond as the children of immigrant parents, shaped by family values, hard work, and cultural traditions. Music, food, and travel have been woven into their story, bringing them to nine different countries where they’ve shared countless memories. In fact, Alan recently proposed to Nicole during a trip to the Apulia region of Italy—an idea entirely of his own making, with absolutely no encouragement from Nicole whatsoever. Alan and Nicole’s story is one of commitment, adventure, and a love that has thrived across cities, miles, and dreams.