Jensen Huang recalls clever pick-up line that led to marriage
- Jensen Huang began studying at Oregon State University at the age of 16 and met his future wife, Lori Mills, at 17.
- He used a clever pick-up line about homework to bond with Mills, leading to regular study sessions every Sunday.
- Huang later became CEO of Nvidia by the age of 30, marrying Mills five years after they first met.
In a recent speech at Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Jensen Huang reflected on his early academic life and personal relationships during his time at Oregon State University in the early 1980s. He began attending OSU at the age of 16, standing out as the youngest student, and met his future wife, Lori Mills, when he was just 17 years old. Huang uniquely approached Mills by asking if she wanted to see his homework, which initiated a series of study sessions every Sunday that solidified their bond. Despite being initially unaware of the depth of his feelings and future aspirations, Huang claimed that he intended to become a CEO by the age of 30, a goal he achieved when he co-founded Nvidia in 1993. This unique blend of personal and professional aspirations eventually led to their marriage five years after they first met. Huang's anecdote highlights the unexpected but effective strategies he employed to capture Mills' attention and nurture their relationship through academic collaboration. Throughout their time as study partners, he meticulously prepared in advance, ensuring he appeared knowledgeable and confident while comparing notes. This proactive approach not only fostered a strong personal connection but also laid the groundwork for Huang's subsequent success as an entrepreneur. By the time he celebrated his 30th birthday, he had already reached significant milestones in his career, marking a pivotal moment in both his professional life and his long-term commitment to Mills. Fast forward to the present day, Huang is recognized as a powerful figure in the technology sector, recently ranking second on Fortune's list of the 100 most powerful people in business. Nvidia's impressive market capitalization of approximately $3.4 trillion as of late November 2024 underscores the significant role the company plays in the booming artificial intelligence industry, showcasing the journey that began with a simple pick-up line in a college setting. Huang's personal story continues to serve as inspiration for many entrepreneurs while illustrating the interplay between personal relationships and professional success.