Wanting to stay out of trouble, senior, Fernando Mandujano, took a liking to photography, his sophomore year, and joined Downey High School’s Yearbook, which opened many doors for him. He is now co editor-in-chief for Yearbook and editor-in-chief for Newspaper.

“I learned how to become a leader,” Mandujano said, “through photography I learned not to be afraid.”

His passion for photography influenced him to take three extra curricular activities: ASB, Yearbook, and Newspaper. For these classes, he is required to shoot pictures of events. While shooting a swim meet at Downey High School, Mandujano captured one of the Santa Fe High swimmers during the 50-meter butterfly event. He entered the photo to the Stay Gallery Stay Young competition and placed second.

“It felt pretty cool to win second,” Mandujano said. “I didn’t expect to win that night.”

He is not the only one that had doors open his way.

Joaquin Oropeza,12, is able to connect with his emotional side better. He is taking AP Lit and Yearbook. With these classes, he is developing skills that he will pursue in writing.

“It helps me express myself in a way I couldn’t do so before,” Oropeza said. “It also allows me to be creative and to tell a story.”

Downey High School’s Yearbook adviser, Mr. Nunley, enjoys having Mandujano as a student and understands him well because they both have a lot on their plate.

“I’m inspired by how involved he is with this school and how he’s willing to help not just Yearbook, but dedicate his time anywhere he can to make Downey High School a better place,” Nunley said.

Mandujano’s long-term goals include continuing his photographic journey into University of California, Santa Barbara and major in communications. Once he majors in communications he will go into journalism and broadcasting. He stays positive through his work, so he hopes that more doors will keep opening his way.