The graduate took photos alongside two alligators she helps care for The graduate confirmed she did not hesitate to agree to the photoshoot with the alligators

An American graduate captured attention and sparked widespread reactions on social media after appearing in an extraordinary graduation photoshoot that broke away from tradition, as she chose to celebrate completing her university studies in a bold way alongside two giant alligators inside a wildlife sanctuary in the U.S. state of Texas.

The graduate, Catalina Daly, 22, celebrated earning her bachelor’s degree in general studies from McNeese State University in Louisiana through distinctive photos she took beside the alligators “Tex” and “Big Al,” both of which she helps care for as part of her daily work at the “Gator Country Adventure” sanctuary.

In statements to People magazine, Daly explained that the idea of including the alligators in the graduation photoshoot came from the sanctuary’s manager, confirming that she immediately agreed because of her strong bond with the animals and her continuous interaction with them over a long period.

The American graduate explained that she received specialized training in handling alligators and wild animals, noting that the photoshoot took place under the supervision of a team of experts to ensure maximum safety, just as happens during the educational shows organized daily by the sanctuary.

Despite the special atmosphere surrounding the experience, Daly stressed the importance of dealing very carefully with wild animals, explaining that alligators naturally possess dangerous abilities, which requires respecting them and understanding their behavior properly rather than acting recklessly or imitating such actions randomly.

She also confirmed that her passion for wildlife began in early childhood, as she participated in animal rehabilitation programs since the age of seven, considering alligators among the most misunderstood creatures due to the frightening image often portrayed by films and media.

Daly further explained that alligators are not naturally inclined to attack humans, but usually prefer to stay away unless provoked or threatened, noting that proper awareness plays an important role in changing public perceptions toward these animals.

Catalina Daly revealed that she plans to continue her work at the sanctuary in the coming period, where she and her fiancé help manage daily operations and care for more than a thousand animals, in addition to organizing educational presentations and training university students on proper wildlife care and safe interaction methods.