In a typical year, about 1,000 U of A students travel to countries all over the world through the office of Study Abroad and International Exchange. To celebrate the vibrant culture, architecture and geography of those locations, students who participated in Study Abroad in the most recent academic year can submit photographs to the Annual Student Photo Contest. This year, six winners were selected from nearly 100 entries in the contest.

In celebration of International Education Week Nov. 16-20, the winning photos are available for students, faculty and staff to use as background photos on Zoom or Microsoft Teams.

University students, faculty and staff are invited to download the photos for use in support of Study Abroad and the hope that our students will soon be traveling again, said Veronica Mobley, assistant director for Study Abroad.

"We are extremely proud of our study abroad alumni. Many of this year's photo contest participants returned home mid-semester due to the global pandemic," Mobley said. "Despite the abrupt end to their study abroad experience, their passion to share the beauty of their study abroad experience prevailed."

Winners:

• An Early Start; Sophia Gibson; Service Learning Through Community Partnerships in Belize
• Lake Tekapo; Mandi MacLean; Human & Animal Interaction in New Zealand
• Mid-January Stroll Through Piazza Navona; Courtney Edmondson; University of Arkansas Rome Center
• Plaza de Espana; Rebekah Kirkish; ISA Study Abroad Spain
• Sikundur Trail System; Elicia F. Abella; Sturgis International Fellowship in Indonesia
• Skagen, Denmark; Raquel Sorensen; University of Arkansas Exchange at Aarhus University

While the pandemic has currently affected the ability to travel, the Study Abroad office continues to help students globalize their education through virtual international programs and future travel.

Students who are interested in pursuing all of these options can drop into the Virtual Study Abroad Fair Nov. 18 anytime from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., to connect with faculty, advisors and program providers.

Mobley said, "Our advisors and faculty are excited to support students as they dream and plan for their perfect study abroad experience, one that supports their academic, professional, and personal goals, even amidst a pandemic — there are program options for everyone!"