In 2013, Ben Scott and Rachel Shapiro’s paths crossed for the first time at Griffith University through a shared passion for baseball. Rachel, who was studying a Bachelor of Film and Screen Media Production, had just signed up to join the Griffith University Baseball Club, eager to try something new and meet new people. Ben, who was studying a Bachelor of Leisure Management, who was running the team, welcomed her to the team. Neither of them knew at the time that this meeting would be the start of something truly special.
Rachel’s time at Griffith was filled with standout moments, from the excitement of Uni Games to forming lasting friendships and making unforgettable memories. She felt incredibly supported by her lecturers and tutors, who played a significant role in her educational journey. For Ben, Griffith was a place where he met a diverse group of friends, studied subjects he was genuinely interested in, and, most importantly, met Rachel.
Their bond grew quickly, and by 2016, Ben proposed to Rachel. She moved in with him shortly after, and two years later, in 2018, they tied the knot in a beautiful ceremony surrounded by their loved ones. Reflecting on their relationship, Rachel shares, "At the time, I didn't think I would be meeting the love of my life. I was only 20 years old when I met Ben, but as soon as I saw him, I knew we had something special. It was very much a 'love at first sight' scenario."
Ben felt the same connection: "Rachel is the most amazing person I have ever met in my life. We are now married and have a child together, and I look back and think, wow, this is the same person I met as a 20-year-old, and they are now my wife and the mother of my child. It's incredible."
Fast forward to today, Rachel and Ben are happily married with a toddler who keeps them on their toes. They cherish family activities and love spending time with their extended family and friends. Ben has found a new passion in indoor cricket and golf, and he hopes to return to baseball next season. Rachel stays active by attending Pilates classes throughout the week. Both of them enjoy the flexibility of working remotely, which allows for a perfect work-life balance.
Rachel explains, "Life with Ben is extremely easy; he makes me feel so loved and cared for and always has. We have a lot of fun together, laughing, singing, playing sports together, and now we have a little human to add to the fun. I am very grateful for him and all that he does to support me and our little one."
Their journey from university friends to a married couple has been filled with love and joy. Rachel and Ben’s story is a testament to the unexpected and wonderful ways life can unfold, especially when you meet someone special at Griffith. They often reminisce about their university days and the chance encounter that brought them together.
Tell us how you met at Griffith
Griffith University has been a place of teaching, learning and research for nearly 50 years—with thousands of personal connections made on campus. Did you enrol in a degree and walk away with a lifelong friend? Did you meet your soulmate, business partner, mentor or confidante at Griffith? What adventures have you shared along the way?
We'd love to hear your stories how you 'Met at Griffith.'
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