Poly Canyon

This is not my first trip to Poly Canyon. I was here about three years ago during my freshman year of college. As I walk through the surroundings again, the main thought that strikes me is the entirely different feel of this experience. Last time I was here with my brother and many friends. The day was hot, and Poly Canyon was breathtakingly beautiful. The group of us were simply enjoying the perfect day and exploring a new area. We looked at and went into all of the houses and took pictures of everything.

Today the weather is overcast and calm. The air feels hot and humid. The bright sun is completely hidden behind a sea of grey clouds. Even with the weather so different than during my last trip, the main difference is the situation. I feel like I am on a field trip, which we sort of are. This seems to limit my enjoyment, probably because I am in my learning mode. Also, the other class members are completely unknown to me.

I never realized the extent of Cal Poly’s land ownership. Knowing that Cal Poly has the land assets that it does, I can’t help feeling a slight sense of pride. Not only do I get to study at a great engineering school, but I also get to attend a college in one of the most beautiful and relatively undeveloped parts of California.

I hear the sounds of birds singing all around me as I sit writing on the hillside. The experience has a calming effect on me, and I feel a sense of detachment from the stressful day to day life of classes, projects, homework and tests.