My name is Mariya Ghori. I am a 25 year old Muslim woman, born and raised in New Jersey. Family is one of the most important things in my life. I am blessed to be raised by a very loving family, with wonderful parents. I have two younger brothers, who I love to tease and hang out with in equal measure. Luckily, my grandparents have been a big part of my life as well. I have a large extended family with many cousins and nieces/nephews. One of my favorite things to do is cuddle my baby nieces/nephews and run around and play with the bigger kids. I am both Pakistani and Indian. I strike a healthy balance of American, Pakistani, and Indian influences in my life.

I attended Rutgers University and majored in business analytics and information technology. I am currently in graduate school pursuing my master's degree in information technology and analytics. Additionally, I am working full time as an Application Support Specialist in an ERP company in the chemical industry. Working full time and attending school part time is very hectic and stressful, but having a strong work/life balance is very important to me. As an introvert, I always try to set aside time for myself to recharge. I enjoy my alone time by reading, doing calligraphy, doing skincare, or watching TV or movies. 

One of my passions is reading. I enjoy reading a variety of genres, including contemporary, historical fiction, fantasy, thrillers, and mysteries. Every year, my friend and I complete the PopSugar Reading Challenge, which consists of 50 different prompts to be completed in a year. Some of my all-time favorite books are Percy Jackson, Ayesha at Last, Love From A to Z, the Lunar Chronicles series, These Violent Delights, We Hunt The Flame, and Pride and Prejudice. I'm also a huge Disney fan. I love watching all the Disney princess movies, the old Disney Channel shows and movies, and Marvel movies. 

As a Muslim, I take my faith very seriously as I pray daily, read Quran, and fast for Ramadan. I do not wear hijab, but I do dress modestly. One of my goals is to learn more about Islam and be the best Muslim I can be. I pray for a spouse who can inspire me to be a better Muslim and with whom I can enter Jannah with Insha'Allah.