Are my feelings towards a girl I've loved since childhood, and have strived to marry, while maintaining religious commitment and hard work, considered true love or mere admiration? Is my supplication for Allah to unite me with her and make her my wife considered an overstepping in supplication, or is it permissible? And are the actions I am taking to reach her considered Islamically sound?

A Muslim must remain steadfast in obedience to Allah and not link righteousness to marrying a specific girl, for religion is the most precious thing a Muslim possesses. It is possible for a Muslim to love a girl, and he is not to be blamed if he strives to keep himself chaste. Islamic law encourages marriage for those who love each other, and if the girl is religious, then hasten to marry her. Studying is not an impediment to marriage, and it is permissible to supplicate for the marriage to her to be facilitated. Supplication is a great good; if it is not answered, Allah may store something better for you, or avert harm. Istikhara (seeking guidance from Allah) is prescribed when contemplating a matter. If Allah diverts you from her, do not regret it, as there are many righteous women. Naming a project after something close to her is not forbidden, but it might lead to continued attachment to her if the marriage does not happen.