I searched the country for a dream date. These guys are my top picks. Who should I choose?

A few weeks ago, with the help of USA TODAY, I set out to find one fantastic guy to go on a Valentine's date with me in New York City. The date, inspired by "Sleepless in Seattle," is my attempt to find my person. I'm 37; I've been on apps, been set up, and I thought it was time to try something bold: a nationwide search.

We received submissions from San Francisco to Atlanta and cities in between. I even reviewed applications from Switzerland and Nigeria. Parents nominated their kids; friends nominated their pals. And plenty of people nominated themselves.

I was touched by the candor with which applicants shared that they too were longing for love. I have single friends. I know I’m not the only single person left in the world. But it’s nice to be reminded that being single is not a journey of solitude. We all want to find love. It’s natural.

I truly appreciate everyone who made a submission. I've also loved reading all the supportive messages from people who are following my journey and cheering me on.

The three men that I’ve selected to move onto the next round in this process (in alphabetical order) are Casey Johnson, Eric Sisam and Michael Zimmermann. After I have virtual dates with them, I’ll select one to meet in New York City.

I’ve included more information about the men and what I liked about each below. While the ultimate decision is mine, I’d love to know who you think I should pick via the poll below.

Casey

I found Casey Johnson to be an impressive candidate. Like me, he doesn't drink. In fact, the "FBoy Island" alum celebrated a year of sobriety on Instagram in October saying he wanted to leave behind the “grumpy mean boy who had nothing going for him besides a clinging hope that a reality TV show would make him relevant." I appreciated his honesty.

According to his application he’s active and enjoys hiking and going to church, which is a big plus for me. The fact that he values family and is “looking for someone who loves deeply and challenges me to be the best version of myself” also got me. Casey is 28 but says in his submission that he's ready to settle down. He calls himself a “lover boy … looking for someone to experience all of the beautiful things life has to offer.” I have to give him a chance, right?

Eric

Eric Sisam shared on his application that he enjoys the outdoors and cruising down the highway for a road trip. And since I am a girl who loves to eat, he got my attention when he declared: “A perfect date includes great food, amazing conversation."

I also enjoyed the humor displayed in his submissions video. “Hopefully you’ll judge me for my amazing hairdo this afternoon,” he said jokingly, his style crushed from wearing “one of those fancy hairnets that the lunch ladies wore from elementary and middle school” all day in the operating room. Eric is 47, which to me could be a draw. I’m intrigued by the idea of dating a man with a bit of life experience.

Michael

Michael Zimmermann's application jumped out at me right away, and that's because he's a professional connection. We've never met but have a friend in common.

He’s 32 and a fellow journalist, and it seems like we share similar interests.

“I am looking for someone to enjoy life with — traveling, laughing, and just simply smiling, enjoying each other's presence and company,” he wrote in his application. And not to be incredibly cliché, but we both enjoy walking on the beach. Really.

Am I a lucky girl to have these three guys to choose from or what? Remember to share your pick with me using the poll below.

Thank you all for being a part of this journey.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: USA TODAY reporter searching for Valentine. Who should she pick?