I had never really seen the beauty of the Cal Poly campus until Yazmin was ready to show off her big achievements and take her college graduation photos there. Let me tell you, researching that area got me buzzing with awesome ideas—beautiful backdrops, iconic landmarks, the works. But reality has a funny way of crashing in, and oh boy, did it crash in the form of an endless parade of graduates with their photographers in tow. It was like Disneyland, but instead of Mickey ears, everyone was sporting caps and gowns.


Despite the long lines and the occasional jostling for the perfect spot, I had a blast with Yazmin and her mom. Trekking through the campus felt like a mini-adventure, discovering interesting nooks and crannies that I had never noticed before. It was as if the campus had transformed into a sprawling, photogenic playground.


So, here’s to Yazmin and all the graduates who braved the Disneyland-esque lines for their perfect shot. May your futures be as bright and promising as the smiles you wore that day. And may all your champagne pops, whether real or Photoshopped, be the start of many celebrations to come.