The journey of a first-generation college student is rarely easy. What may seem like routine steps for some—applying to college, filling out forms, standing in lines—can feel overwhelming when you’re the first in your family to do it. You wonder if you belong. You hope and pray for acceptance. You dream of the day you’ll walk across that stage and earn your degree. You are the first—but you won’t be the last.
Rosie began her college journey at Santa Ana College in 2018, ultimately earning her Associate of Science in Business Administration in 2023. Life threw unexpected challenges her way—she became a mother, faced the trials of single parenthood, and endured the emotional weight of a difficult custody battle. Despite these obstacles, she persevered. After being accepted to four CSU campuses, Rosie chose to continue her education at Cal State Long Beach, pursuing a degree in Management Information Systems. Go Beach!
Balancing full-time work, full-time studies, and single motherhood, Rosie faced some of the most demanding moments of her life. But she didn’t do it alone. Her parents and daughter were her anchor. Her mom’s warm meals, her dad’s small acts of care—like filling up her gas tank—and her daughter’s energy and love gave her the strength to keep going.
Rosie dedicates this achievement to her family—for their unwavering support, for standing by her in her darkest hours, and for believing in her even when she struggled to believe in herself. On her graduation cap is the image of the Virgin of Guadalupe—a symbol of her faith, her prayers, and the divine guidance that carried her through the hardest days. Her cap is both a tribute and a testament to the strength she found through her spirituality.
Just one month before graduation, in April 2025, Rosie and her family suffered a devastating loss: her grandfather passed away. He came to the United States with hope for a better future for his family. Though he isn’t here to witness this milestone, Rosie knows he is watching over her—proud of the woman and mother she has become.
Rosie hopes her daughter sees this accomplishment and feels inspired. She wants her to dream big, pursue higher education, and go further than she did. As a first-generation college graduate, Rosie is breaking generational cycles. With faith, family, and perseverance, she believes there are no limits to what her daughter—or anyone—can achieve.
This Story was captured by A Story in Time Photography – Jessie Cadenas with the assistance of Melissa Quezada. We are Los Angeles, Orange County Wedding Photographers located in the Inland Empire. Our style is Classic, Romantic, and Fun. If you are interested in your Family, Quinceañera, Engagement, or Wedding Story being captured, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us using the contact button at the top of this post or HERE.
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