The Center for International Studies Photo Contest is organized around our learning outcomes for study abroad. Because studying abroad goes beyond tourist experiences, and involves understanding the country and its culture, learning about the host country's values, being flexible, accomplishing new achievements, and becoming a new person, we look for photos to demonstrate these exciting, engaging aspects. Entrants must submit a short explanation of how the photo demonstrates one of these categories.
Click below on Learning Outcome Categories to see the winning photos:
- Understanding country & culture: In what way(s) do you have a better understanding of the country and culture where you studied abroad? What did you see or do that was unique?
- Learning values: In what way(s) were your values tested, and what did you learn about your host country’s values?
- Flexibility & adaptability: How did you demonstrate tolerance, flexibility, or a positive attitude in adapting to differences abroad?
- Accomplishment: In what way(s) did you develop a sense of accomplishment, an ability to be self-reliant, and an increase in self-esteem while abroad?
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A new person: How is your life is different because of studying abroad?
Understanding Country & Culture: In what way(s) do you have a better understanding of the country and culture where you studied abroad? What did you see or do that was unique?
1st Place
“Roma” by Paige Guyton:
This picture was taken while I was visiting Rome, Italy. As part of the study abroad experience we were able to take a group trip for the weekend. With other members of my group we were given a tour of the remarkable city. We were able to see the Coliseum, St. Peters Basilica and the breathtaking Sistine Chapel. Another stop on our excursion was the ancient ruins that were once Capitol Hill. While sitting and listening to our tour guide I glanced over to see an Asian family taking in this breathtaking site as well. Their daughter began to wonder off and explore on her own. I thought this was a remarkable picture because I was able to capture something so old and remarkable, as well as a young girl taking in the history for the first time. I found this moment to be very unique, while learning about one culture’s history I was able to observe another culture learning the same things. No matter where you come from or what you believe in it was unmistakable that what I was seeing at that moment was quite remarkable. It is a moment from my trip to Italy that I will not soon forget.
“A Way of Life” by Lindsay Morgan: Seville, Spain
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When I reflect upon my study abroad experience, it is very easy to tell you how my understanding of country changed. My eyes were opened the most to the differences between other countries and my own in the country where this picture was taken—Morocco. Before I left for my semester abroad, I knew that things there would be very different. I would be subject to a different set of values, different religious beliefs, different health practices… a different way of life. Morocco showed me what it is to lead a beautifully satisfying existence, with next to nothing. All that most of the people could claim for their own were what you see here: a boat, a fishing rod, 4-stucco walls, blue skies, and a zeal for life- a zeal that I now try to emulate in my own life. Just as the Moroccans would never trade any aspect of their life, I wouldn’t dream of trading any of my experiences, memories, or lessons that I learned abroad for anything in the world!
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“Old Meets New” by Kristen Malone: London Millenium Footbridge London, England
This is a picture of the London Millennium Footbridge which leads you to St. Paul’s Cathedral (pictured in background). The London Millennium Footbridge was built only eight years ago in 2000 and stretches 320 meters over the Thames River. St. Paul’s Cathedral was built 400 years ago in the seventeenth century and holds an extreme amount of historical importance. One thing that I found myself constantly learning and becoming intrigued with was the history that connects the old to the new. There is a connection between this modern bridge and the historical cathedral that symbolizes the connection of the centuries. It shows how the past takes us to the present. Discovering more about the history of London made me learn so much about why it is the way it is today.
“Pelicans of Totto” by Ryan Seaver: Rottnest Island (Strickland Bay) Western, Australia
During a trip to Rottnest Island, lovingly referred to as Rotto by the locals, I expected to take in spectacular underwater vistas snorkeling and catch some waves at one of the famous surf breaks, but I didn’t expect to find myself looking down the gaping beak of an enormous pelican. After an early morning bus ride across the small island and a kilometer hike, burdened by surfboards and snorkeling gear, through unique arid coastal landscape, we had reached Strickland Bay. Pegged as having the best surf and biggest crowds on the island, Strickland Bay was entirely empty when we finally dropped our boards onto the white sand beach. Where were the crowds as promised? We didn’t know or care. As I sat on the beach watching the waves curl over the distant reef, I began to get the feeling that this is what I came here for. I began to understand why a country with so much beautiful coastline and so few people was also the most laid back and friendly place I had ever visited. How could it not be? These thoughts were lazily turning over in my head when a beautiful Australian Pelican with an eight-foot wingspan plopped gently onto the reef not 20 meters away. I assumed it would immediately take to flight as I crept over the reef. But the majestic bird allowed me to within arm, or rather beak’s, length before snapping in protest. I realized once again why “no worries” is a national policy.
3rd Place
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I took this photo at the last fight of the season in Seville during the first few weeks of my semester abroad. I went into the fight convinced that I wasn’t going to enjoy it. As the event started I looked around at the audience and realized how seriously they take the sport. Although bullfighting isn’t my first choice in entertainment, I was able to understand and appreciate the tradition and culture in Spain and how much bullfighting is a part of their history. They take great pride in their Matadors and also have immense respect for the bulls. After my experience at the bullfight I was able to have a deeper insight of the Spanish people and the many traditions that define their culture. |
Honorable Mention
“Rainbow Over the Thames” by Maggie Johnson: London, England
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This is a picture of a rainbow over the Thames River in London, England. I took this picture on one of my last days in London and it helps me understand London better because it represents something that happens a lot in London—rain. It took me a while to get used to the rain in London. It was cold and miserable a lot of the time. When I saw that rainbow, I realized that although the rain is a nuisance most of the time, it is also one of the things that gives London its character. If it were sunny and gorgeous every day in London, everyone would take those days for granted. The rainbow reminded me that London is proud of its rainy weather and its people are proud of it too. The rain isn’t something to be upset about (although I was upset about it when I had to walk in it), but it is something to embrace because it is definitely a London trademark. |
Honorable Mention
“Lost in the Albaicin" by Ana Gallastegui: Granada, Spain
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Granada was one of my favorite cities especially because of its beautiful terrain and the breath taking views from the Albaicín. While wondering through the hills and tiny streets of the Albaicín, I learnt that it is not until you get lost that you really understand and appreciate the city. I had absolutely no idea where I was, but my confusion was simply a tiny detail because behind every corner there was a new architectural surprise. When I reached the top of the hill, I looked over towards the Alahambra, and I felt like I could now understand better the difficulties the Moors, Christians, and Jews faced every day. They created a beautiful city with exquisite details without the technology available today. The picture demonstrates that even when my friend and I were lost, we were wondering through history in same manner that thousands before us had traveled. |
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Learning values: In what way(s) were your values tested, and what did you learn about your host country’s values?
“The Locks at Puning” by Jescia Severson: Beijing, China
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The Buddhist Temple of Puning Si is a wonder in its own right, but the locks latched to a fence inside its grounds reveal an especially interesting local tradition. Lovers who visit the temple can pledge their eternal devotion to one another with “Buddha’s locks of fate,” as this lock reads. The locks themselves have no keyholes, and there are thousands of them on display at Puning. Though I was in China, the scene reminded me of Italy and the locks of the Ponte Vecchio in Florence. Two countries separated by thousands of miles share a similar local tradition. It serves as a reminder that some values transcend country and culture because it is our humanity that unites us.
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"At a Glance" by Kristen Malone: Tate Modern Art Museum London, England
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This picture was taken in front of the Tate Modern Art Museum in London. At first glance you think it is a black man with a gun in his hand aimed and ready to fire. At closer inspection you realize that it is not a gun, but a video camera. The intense and aggressive picture forces us to re-evaluate our assumptions and teaches us to counteract pessimistic stereotypes. With no words at all this picture is a perfect example of the false impression many countries have on one another. Going to study abroad, I was warned that the people of London were rude and have a negative outlook on Americas. After getting to know a handful of Londoners I was so surprised how false everything I heard was, just as they were surprised to be proven wrong on their previous views of Americans. I was shown, just as this picture portrays, that you cannot judge a person on impressions or stereotypes that have previously been formed. You must look closely at the culture just as you must look closely at this picture to be able to see what it truly is. Looking closer into their culture I found that London is a place of so much interesting history and full of people who are proud of what their country represents and the tradition it carries.
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"Soldi, Per Favore" by Katie Ruppel: Florence, Italy
Honorable Mention
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The Egyptians are very proud of their heritage. Of the many people visiting the pyramids and the Sphinx, most of them were Egyptians. They all looked on the Great Pyramids of Giza with pride in their eyes. I could tell that the monuments to their past were more to the Egyptians than simple works of art; they were a connection to their magnificent past.
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Honorable Mention
"Freedom to See" by Allie Brown: The Sahara Desert, Morocco
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This is a photograph of my friends and me in our scarves right before we hopped on our camels to explore the Sahara desert. I entitled it “the freedom to see” because just as our guide was wrapping it around my head he stopped and left space for my eyes, saying (in a very thick Berber accent) “so you have freedom to see.” His simple words made me think of how much I abuse my privilege to freedom. I look around and all I see are women, men and children who live with the bare minimum. Riding camels as quick transportation and begging you to buy one of their brilliant rugs so they won’t have to struggle for food. I have the freedoms to see a world beyond my own. Others don’t get that luxury. I don’t have to hide behind a scarf like some of the native women surrounding me. I was raised to be proud of showing my whole face. That being said, it’s amazing how much you can see from only the eyes of a stranger.
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Flexibility & adaptability: How did you demonstrate tolerance, flexibility, or a positive attitude in adapting to differences abroad?
"Scarf Maker" by Helen Byrd: Fez, Morocco
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My experience in Morocco was once in a lifetime. The way women are treated in this Muslim country is very different than here in the United States. As visitors in their country we were asked to be respectful of their culture and beliefs with our words and requests, as well as with our clothing. Trying to blend in, as an American in a Muslim nation, isn’t exactly easy. Their culture is very unique and I have a great respect for it. The flexibility I learned was not only in the way I dressed, but also in thoughts and words.
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When you think of Italy, you think of its beautiful art and architecture, grandiose churches, streets of shopping, big shutter windows, accordion players, and little cafes with cappuccinos galore. But one thing you don't think about is rain. And it rained a lot in Florence. A LOT. I, personally, hate the rain and getting wet. But when you are in a place with no car, walking is your only choice. At first I was miserable. Then I learned to live with it. Then I learned to somewhat enjoy it. For me it was hard not to like everything about Florence. One of my teacher's warned us to always keep our eyes out, because Florence was a fine, fine city, and he didn't want to see us American kids walking around with our ipods in and our heads looking at our feet. I took his advice. I always kept my eyes open, took in all the feelings I could, pressed every memory in my mind, and did not use anything, even an umbrella, to block a single event. This picture is of my favorite church that I saw in all of Europe, and it happened to be right down the street from my apartment. I saw things from artisan markets to puppet shows to communist rallies take place in front of this church, and I love how it is still full of people, even in the rain.
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"Canopy of Beauty" by Anna Waugh: Hyde Park London, England
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This photo was taken in Hyde Park after a strenuous journey to actually get to the park, and then trying to find the Peter Pan statue. However, when time was running out, as my plane was going to leave without me, my friend and I decided to simply enjoy as much of the wonderful park as time would allow instead of finding the statue. So, while we did not find the statue, we were able to flex with the time allotted, as many situations arose with time management while abroad, and ended up seeing more of the beautiful nature and surroundings by walking around with the rest of our time.
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"Waiting out the Rain" by Ryan Seaver: Australia Zoo Queensland, Australia
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Anyone who has been on an extended road-trip can tell you that not everything will go as planned. Keeping this in mind, I thought it better not to make a plan. For me, the unplanned trip was nestled snuggly between the last day of class and my first final. For some students the time was a “study break”, but for me it was a chance to experience the home of the Great Barrier Reef. With little more than a rental car and a Lonely Planet guidebook, I set off with my good friend Meredith on a winding coastal track from Surfer’s Paradise in the south to the tropical rainforests of Cape Tribulation in the north. Along the way I experienced some of the most amazing things I’ve ever seen or done, but the trip wasn’t without its hitches. One of which was the rain. While enjoying a stroll through the late Steve Irwin’s Australia Zoo, we were hit with a deluge and went for cover under a nearby pavilion. Soon after we dripped up to the pavilion, it seemed the kangaroos had the same idea and began to bounce in from all around to wait out the rain with us. Standing there, dripping wet, it would have been easy to be negative about the situation. But being negative is not the Australian way. So we relaxed with the ‘roos and enjoyed the moment on Aussie time. Too easy.
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Accomplishment: In what way(s) did you develop a sense of accomplishment, an ability to be self-reliant, and an increase in self-esteem while abroad?
"The Courtyard" by Katie Ruppel: Florence, Italy
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This is a picture of the courtyard outside our kitchen window of our apartment in Florence. It's amazing how many memories come from just this one little space. The courtyard had a perfect way of reverberating every sound to and from other apartments. We would often receive a plea from a certain neighbor to "Be silent always!" In my opinion, that was a little too much to ask. But, as visitors to the country, we had to be respectable neighbors, and tried our best to live life in silence. The courtyard was also where we attempted to hang our wet clothes. Although I feel like clothes hanging on the line outside a window is a trademark look of Italy, it’s really not so glamorous once you do it yourself. To some it may seem odd that this courtyard would be the first place I would turn to recall fond memories. But it was part of my home; I looked up out the window and saw this view at least once a day. And I could look at this same picture in years, and still remember what it felt like to be there.
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The Great Wall at Simatai is one of the least visited of the Great Wall sites. It is not a crowded tourist destination. In fact, Simatai is largely deserted, except for hikers looking for an unconventional way to experience the Great Wall of China. For me, hiking was both beautiful and brutal. Imagine ten kilometers of rocky, rugged stone stairs. Nothing was flat and some parts of the wall were dangerous. I used my hands to climb up some of the stairs, and I nearly slipped and tumbled down the loose gravel on one particular downhill section. Ten kilometers took over four hours to hike. Because it was hot, because I was sweating through everything I had on, and because I felt faint and dehydrated nearly the whole time, I appreciated the Wall so much more. Gorgeous green landscape, cascading rice terraces, green hills and mountains for as far as the eye could see. The Great Wall of China certainly deserves World Wonder status. It is an ancient survivor in a modern world, still calling us to its challenge.
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Honorable Mention
"A New Perspective" by Paige McKenzie Guyton: Fort Belvedere Overlooking Florence, Italy
"Se Lucen" by Lindsay Morgan: Seville, Spain
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To me, Se Lucen, which means “they shine” or “they show off,” describes this picture and the Spanish sense of accomplishment perfectly. In the United States, we are taught to constantly strive for excellence and progress, and often leave our history and traditions in the past. In Sevilla, people are similarly encouraged to constantly strive for a brighter future, but they also have instilled in them a deep sense of pride and respect for their colorful history and traditions. This picture captures this sense of progress based on tradition perfectly as it depicts the proud matadors in traditional dress being photographed by the local paparazzi; a much more modern facet of Spanish society. My time in Sevilla taught me the importance of not only working hard to achieve my goals, but also of remembering where I came from, for without these roots, my achievements would be worth much less.
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"On Top of the World" by Leslie Lang: Interlaken, Switzerland
A new person: How is your life is different because of studying abroad?
"Sydney Christmas" by Ryan Seaver, Sydney Harbour: New South Wales, Australia
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It was my last night in Australia. The next day was Christmas Eve and I would be going home. As I walked alone across Sydney Harbor Bridge everything seemed still around the opera house. The bustle of café-going tourists with cameras was imperceptible from across the harbor at night. My traveling companion for the past four weeks, a guy from Wisconsin that I became good friends with at University in Perth, had flown home the day before and I had only my thoughts to keep me company. I thought about where I was, where I had been, and where I was going. It seemed so long ago since I had hugged my family goodbye and fumbled my way through airport security at DFW. I remembered my arrival in Sydney and how I had slowed traffic through the train station with my unwieldy luggage and overall cluelessness. I was back in Sydney, and in a few hours I would be on a flight back DFW where my family would greet me. I thought of how I would leave the same way I came and how impossible it was to think of everything that happened in between. Fireworks exploding colorfully across the water brought me back from my thoughts. As I stood and gazed across the harbor I thought of how much I had changed since I first glimpsed the iconic opera house and how quickly it had all gone by.
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"The Dunes" by Helen Byrd: Sahara Desert, Morocco
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Although my semester was spent mostly in Spain, I was able to take many exciting trips. One of my favorite excursions was to Morocco. Traveling in North Africa was like nothing I’ve ever experienced. It was the first time I’ve ever been to a country where the religious leader is also the head of the government. We camped one night in the Sahara Desert, in such a desolate location that we had to ride camels to the sight! We also traveled through the capital and to the old city of Fez, where the streets are a maze of tiny alleyways. When our bus was making its way back to Tangier to catch the ferry back to Terifa, Spain, there were so many young children who were trying to hide under our bus and make their way into Spain. I can’t express the sorrow that my heart felt when I was told that mothers send their children to try and get out of Morocco, knowing that they may never see them again. I am forever grateful for the freedoms we have and for those who are fighting to protect those rights, here and abroad.
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3rd Place
"Neuschwanstein Castle" by Paige McKenzie Guyton: Bavaria, Germany
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This picture was taken during my last week of traveling abroad. One of my roommates and I were taking a train to Austria from Italy. We were going to meet a friend in Innsbruck, Austria and continue to travel by car to Munich, Germany. On the way to Munich we decided to make a quick stop to visit the Neuschwanstein Castle in southern Germany. I took this picture from inside the castle looking out on the Appalachian Mountains. It was the most breathtaking site I had ever seen. The picture to me nearly looks fake, the glistening lake, the green trees, and the snow tipped mountains were all to perfect. In this moment I realized how lucky I was to be seeing such a remarkable site. This was a place that very few people are able to see in a lifetime and I was able to experience it. It was the end of my time abroad and I was really able to see how far I had come in those three months. I learned how to navigate my way through every city I visited. I learned how to communicate with people from Italy, Germany, and Spain. I also learned how different each culture is from another, but at the same time how extraordinary each individual culture can be. This picture shows to me how far I came and the importance of learning about different cultures. I am forever grateful for this experience.
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Honorable Mention
"Embracing the Extraordinary" by Lindsay Morgan: Barcelona, Spain
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This photo was taken at Parc Guell in Barcelona, Spain—a place constructed during Gaudi’s personal journey for artistic self-realization. Just as Gaudi discovered his true calling and refined his talents through risky endeavors, so did we discover our true selves and evolve into adaptable, open-minded, and adventurous people through endeavors of our own. I can certainly say that I took the risk of letting my experience abroad mold me into a new person, and not once have I regretted my decision! I now know the true value of trying new things, waking up at impossible hours in order to see things that typically wouldn’t interest me, and trying on aspects of another culture, just to see how they fit into my life. Turns out, the fit is pretty perfect.
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Honorable Mention
"Pena Palace" by Saddyna Belmashkan: Sintra, Portugal
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This is the view from the Pena Palace in Sintra, Portugal, which I did not know existed until I visited the country. I am a different person for having traveled abroad and having encountered and experienced histories and cultures different from my own. The picture is a metaphor for the vastness of knowledge there is to learn. My view was only from one of the archways before arriving and then I had the special opportunity to view the world from many more perspectives, as seen with the array of archways. |
