Study abroad photo contest

Fort Worth, TX

12/7/2006

By: Cacy Barnard
TCU Office of Communications

Student photos reflect life-changing travels abroad

From hiking in New Zealand and touring ancient temples in Burma to living with a Spanish family and watching the World Cup with the locals, TCU study abroad students experience the true culture of countries around the world and have photos to prove it.

Highlighting the worldwide travels of several students, the photo contest hosted by The Center for International Studies provides an insight into life outside TCU and a realm of unforgettable memories. With several categories, each image demonstrates a particular value that students gained, including understanding of the culture, experiencing local life and self-accomplishment.

“I want to help spread the news about what a life-changing and amazing experience studying abroad is, and pictures are a good way to do that,” says Marisa Sleeter, Best of Show contest winner who recently traveled to Seville, Spain.

Though the photos alone are impressive, the stories behind them truly give a sense of the impact of international studies. Each carries a meaningful message and unique experience that influences both the students and the host countries.

“The photos showcase that what students do is more than tourism, but includes cultural immersion, personal achievement and learning experiences. Students are pushing themselves to try new things, learning about their hosts and their host cities in meaningful ways and having an opportunity to experience and learn in ways that are not possible on this campus,” says Tracy Rundstrom Williams, associate director of the Center for International Studies.

While students may enter the experience with set opinions, they walk away with completely new perspectives of the activities, food, language and the culture as a whole. In a rapidly changing world, the photos reflect the need for understanding of other cultures and go hand in-hand with TCU’s mission to prepare students to serve in the global community.

“TCU wants to prepare students to be ethical leaders and responsible citizens in the global community, and showing what students do on study abroad programs helps demonstrate how we are indeed building a generation of global leaders,” Williams says.

Along with recognizing the importance of international communication and awareness, the ventures encourage students to develop on a personal level. Whether it is learning to navigate the new city or becoming fluent in a foreign language, students often acquire greater flexibility and acceptance in all aspects of life.

“I am a different person now than I was before I left, in almost every way. I am very independent and can handle myself no matter what situation I encounter. As our world becomes increasingly interdependent, it is important to understand the culture and the views of other societies and how they interact with others,” Sleeter says.

To see more pictures from the contest, click here.