The International Office at the University of Economics in Bratislava recently held an exciting event to engage exchange students from its partner institutions around the globe. From 28.01.2025 to 04.03.2025 the International Office hosted a unique photography challenge with eight participants, encouraging students to showcase their personal experiences through their lenses. This year’s competition, titled “MY EXCHANGE EXPERIENCE IN SLOVAKIA” allowed students to capture moments of their study abroad journey.
After careful deliberation, the panel of judges from the university’s International Office selected three students whose photographs stood out for their creativity, emotional impact, and technical skill. The top three winners were awarded valuable prizes and celebrated at the International Study Abroad Fair held at the university last month.
The first-place winner, the Ukrainian student, Yuliia from Kyiv National Economic University, expressed her excitement after receiving the award: "I'm thrilled to win 1st place! I took this photo at the UFO Bridge in Bratislava, a spot I had always wanted to visit at night. The view was incredible, and it truly captured the charm and excitement of Bratislava by night."
The runner-up, Moroccan student Kamiliaa, from ESCA Ecole de Management, shared how important the contest was for her: "This photo captures the peacefulness of the sunset and the airplane contrail. It’s a moment of calm that contrasts with the bustling sunsets back home, and I’m grateful for the quiet beauty I’ve found in Slovakia."
Finally, French student Aisosa, from École de management de Normandie, who claimed third place, expressed her excitement: "Seeing the UFO Bridge and sunset was breathtaking, and I knew it would be a perfect souvenir of the city. I've met amazing people here, and I already love Slovak culture, including bryndzové halušky!"
The event not only celebrated the artistic talents of exchange students but also served as a reminder of the unique and life-changing experiences that studying abroad offers. The International Office hopes the contest will continue inspiring future students to share their stories and perspectives through creative outlets like photography.
1st place - Yuliia, Kyiv National Economic University
2nd place - Kamiliaa, ESCA Ecole de Management
3rd place - Aisosa, École de management de Normandie