International Photo Contest Winners on the Moments That Moved Them

Photographer: Michelle Catano ’26, Marketing Major, Computer Information Systems and International Affairs Minors 

Semester Abroad: API Barcelona, Spring 2025

Photo Location: Sahara Desert, North Africa

“This photo tells the story of my final trip abroad and my determination to make the most of it. It captures the feeling of standing in a place so vast and surreal that it makes you appreciate how far you’ve come — literally and personally.

Since this was my last trip abroad, I wanted to choose something unforgettable. Visiting the Sahara Desert felt like a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I took this photo to capture the calm, the openness, and the sense of freedom in that moment.

I wanted to share this photo because it reflects how meaningful it was to push myself to explore as much as possible. It’s a reminder that some of the best memories happen when you go a little farther than planned.

This image represents closure, growth, and gratitude. It symbolizes the end of my study-abroad journey and the confidence I gained from embracing every opportunity — including traveling all the way to the Sahara Desert.”

Photographer: Avelyn Nguyen ’29, Finance Major

Semester Abroad: Bentley University, Fall 2025 (from Vietnam)

Photo Location: Franconia, New Hampshire, United States 

“The photo tells a story about the connection between human and nature. The image shows the natural, colorful but quiet beauty of mountains, lakes along with the street leading to it at New Hampshire. It seems to remind people to slow down to appreciate the peaceful and breathtaking scene.

I was struck by how the light, colors and scenes came together perfectly that day; the scene was a perfect combination. Besides, that was the first time I went hiking in the U.S, so I wanted to capture the memorable moment.

I wanted to share it with others as the view was so breathtaking and amazing. I loved it when people could imagine and experience the same wonder as I did. Sharing it is a way to invite people to appreciate the beauty together. Additionally, that is my way to share interests and find new friends, be proud of myself and hear opinions from others.

The photo represents a moment of exploration and freedom during my time here. It was my first time travelling in the U.S. that far and it motivates me to continue exploring. Whenever I look at it, I’m so proud and reminded of how gorgeous nature can be, how meaningful a trip can be, and how worth a step-out-of-comfort time can be.”  

Photographer: Lauren Yee ’27, Accounting Major 

Semester Abroad: IFSA at Shanghai University of Finance and Economics, Fall 2025 

Photo Location: Yuyuan Garden, Shanghai, Huangpu District 

“This photo is a glimpse of one of the many historical places in China, showcasing the lights and architecture during the evening.  

The colors of this part of the garden really stood out to me, especially because I was able to visit in the evening. Along with the lights, I also thought the way that they showcased the architecture of the buildings and the ponds was beautiful. 

I wanted to share this photo with others to show just one of the many beautiful historical landscapes within China. Visiting the Yu Garden at night gave me a significant appreciation for the architecture in China. 

This place specifically was a good mixture of both modern and historical elements, and I wanted to showcase how unique some of the Chinese architecture I visited was.” 

Photographer: Richa Thapa ’26, Information Technology in Accounting Major 

Semester Abroad: CEA CAPA Rome, Fall 2024 

Photo Location: Rome, Italy 

“This photo tells the story of a group of strangers who became a family while studying abroad in Rome. We all came from different places, and in a completely new country, we built a community of our own. The picture captures the warmth of our makeshift Thanksgiving, showing the growth in both our personal journeys and our relationships. Together, we formed lifelong friendships while navigating a new place side-by-side, showing that family can be found anywhere. 

I was compelled to take this photo because it captured a moment that felt genuine and heartwarming. We were simply present, laughing and enjoying being together, which was a feeling I wanted to hold onto. I felt so grateful to have created such meaningful relationships in a short period of time with people I already knew would become my friends for life. 

I wanted to share this photo because it captures the true heart of studying abroad and the people who make a new place feel like home. While landmarks and travel are easy to remember, this moment shows the quiet beauty of friendships that develop as we navigate an unfamiliar environment and support one another along the way. It reflects how stepping outside your comfort zone can create connections and experiences that are both unexpected and unforgettable. 

This image is a reminder of how special my time in Rome was because of the people I shared it with. It captures the love we had for one another from the very first day we met. These friends were with me throughout the entire journey, and together we created countless memories that truly shaped my experience. They made all the difference in my time abroad, and I will forever cherish and be grateful for them. That semester, many of us faced our biggest fears, and we witnessed one another grow in ways that brought us even closer together. This photo is a reminder of the joy in that growth and the strength of the bond we built.” 

Photographer: Nachaka Lizubuho, MSA ’26, Master of Science in Accounting

Semester Abroad: Tongji University in Shanghai, China, 2021 

Photo Location: Great Wall of China (Mutianyu section), Beijing 

“This photo captures a moment of embracing the vastness and beauty of the world. It represents a time when I left my country for the first time, and seeing the Great Wall of China, an actual Wonder of the World, felt surreal. It symbolizes independence, curiosity and stepping into a new chapter of my life. 

The view was breathtaking, and I wanted to hold onto the feeling of seeing something so monumental and inspiring. I wanted to share the beauty of international travel and the joy it brings. 

This trip took place right after high school, so it’s always meaningful to show a moment that shaped me at such a young age. It reminds me to slow down and appreciate the beauty around me. It also reflects my courage in leaving home, exploring the unknown, and dreaming big. 

It’s a reminder that there is always a way forward if you are brave enough to take the first step.” 

Photographer: Melissa Sawyer, Pulsifer Career Development Center 

Semester Abroad: London, England, 2025 

Photo Location: London 

“I thought this picture tells the story of inclusion in this lively neighborhood. 

My husband and I had recently participated in the Pride Parade in Boston with the Bentley contingency. It was a very powerful day for us and these phone booths jumped out at me as a reminder of that experience. 

I’m proud to travel as an ally and to share these moments with my family. 

I describe this photo ‘From red phone boxes to rainbow flags, love’s always on the line in London.’

I wanted to share this with others because I just thought it was beautiful: the old phone booths with the support of the LGBTQ+ community through the flags and rainbow colors in the windows. They were beautiful and stood out to me as we walked through the Covent Garden area of London.”