Photo Contest

Well, we all know I love studying abroad, taking pictures, taking pictures whilst studying abroad, etc. What better way to combine all of these into an application for a contest? That's precisely what I did. TU's 4th Annual "It's a Trip!" Photo Contest sets the background for our story. A mere specification of "6 photos with a description in 50 words or less" left me with much to think about. How to narrow down the array to just 6?! Hoping the other pictures didn't think I loved them any less, I was able to cut it down to 10, but the next 4 was just too hard a decision for me. Luckily for me, I had the secret weapon of friends whose judgement was not only available but also something I valued. And thus I allowed them to complete the cut where I could not. In case they want recognition (and that's just too bad if they don't!), the friends who so quickly lent me their opinions were: Elizabeth O'Neill, Joshua Berman, and Sue MacFarlane. What follow are the pictures they helped me pick, accompanied by my little anecdotes. Don't fear: each is under 50 words. ;) And now, the "Nikki Enters a Photo Contest" Show!

While walking through Stadtpark (the city park) in Vienna, Austria, the overcast sky set a dreary yet beautiful backdrop to the park. It was a last reminder that though there was no snow on the ground anymore, winter still dominated the landscape.

Vienna presents a contrast to the harsh rigidity of modern times through surreal "days of yore" snow-covered landscapes and elaborate architecture from the 1700s.

When the clouds part and the sun comes out to melt the snow, a hope for Spring emerges from the winter-bound soul. A glance to the terrace begins the dream.

Left with no knowledge of the social norms of Barcelona, you're left with a choice: to simply take in the sun rays bouncing off the plaza, or run through the birds, dreaming of a day when you, too could fly.

The cherries gleam in the spotlight, taunting your growling stomach as your hand inches toward your purse. The pies stack around you, but this one has you caught in its stare. It knows you too well. Nothing else will do. You give in to the temptation in front of you.

Wind blows through the sails, urging faster, faster! Up joyously with the waves and down again with a menacing crash. Back in the Barcelona port the sun finally sets but tomorrow the adventure begins again.

Well, I hope you enjoyed this as much as I did taking the pictures and trying to figure out what in the world I should put as a description. Haha. As you can probably tell, I got more into it as I worked.

Note: You can vote in the contest on TU campus at the CGE from March 23-27th!