Displays of the second annual photo contest were located in Sims Memorial Library.
Rachel Taylor/ The Lion's Roar 

The second annual photo contest for returning study abroad students wrapped up this week. Five winners were announced at the university’s “International Night.”

Department Head of Languages and Communication Lucia Harrison explained how the contest first came into being.

“I had this idea to showcase the work of our students who attend the study abroad,” said Harrison. “Last year was the first time, and of course you learn as you go, and the first time I didn’t have categories.”

This year the contest included three categories: Nature/Outdoor, Urban Landscapes and People/Culture, as well as a division for faculty and a People Choice Award.

“There was another category, but I didn’t have any entries, so I’m going to make sure that we do that next year,” said Harrison. “It was ‘Lion’s Abroad,’ and it was going to be with them wearing a Southeastern shirt or something, but I had this idea when they had already come back.”

The winners this year were Angela Thomas for Nature/Outdoor, Meghan Landry for Urban Landscapes, Amanda Kitch for People/Culture, Mariela Sanchez for Faculty, and Victoria Arledge for People’s Choice.

All the entries were uploaded to Facebook, and the People Choice award was determined by the amount of likes received. There were over 60 entries, with each participant being able to submit up to three pictures.

Instructor of languages and communication and winner of the faculty division of the competition Mariela Sanchez discussed her entries.

“I never expected that I was going to win,” said Sanchez. “I submitted two pictures. One which was a medieval town and I had another picture of a convent. Inside in the courtyard, it has a different architectural style.”

Sanchez explained why she took inspiration from the building.

“I am an architect by profession, so I love that, and see the value in the building.”

Junior communications major and winner of the People/Culture category Amanda Kitch talked about her reaction upon hearing she won.

“I was ecstatic,” said Kitch. “It’s odd being rewarded for taking photos for adding to my memories, but it’s awesome.”

Kitch also talked her experience taking pictures abroad.

“Just walking down like an alleyway, you shoot a pic, you take a picture of everything,” said Kitch. “I mean, everything is photo-esque in France.”

The winners received a university gift basket along with their new memories that will last a lifetime.

“It’s a wonderful way to showcase our students who study abroad, and I hope that next year we will have even more participation,” said Harrison.