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Students get ‘reflective’ for BSU photo competition

Wednesday, 22 May, 2024

Bath Spa University international students recently had the chance to reflect on their experiences of living in Bath, studying abroad and exploring creativity through photography. 

BSU launched its first International Photo Competition earlier this year, and the winners were announced at an exhibition on 25 April at the Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution. The winners in each category received £100 and a certificate from the Mayor of Bath, Councillor Dine Romero, who also attended the exhibition. 

Winners of BSU International Photo Competition posing with the Mayor of Bath, Dine Romero

The competition was designed to highlight and celebrate the University’s international diversity and give students the opportunity to reflect on their international identities and experiences. Students were invited to submit photos in three categories: The City of Bath, Our Global Reach and Spotlight on Creativity. The competition was run in parallel with the University of Bath.  

Jess Biddle, International Student Experience Manager said: 

“Students from 12 nationalities and representing over 20 courses submitted photos, demonstrating the diversity of talent and ambition that international students bring to the university and to the city of Bath.” 

Bath Abbey with its reflection in a pool of rainwater below it

Talking about the importance of the competition, she continued: 

“It takes courage, creativity and introspection to participate in this kind of event, and the students’ willingness to share their experiences through their literal and figurative lenses have not only enriched our understanding but also deepened our appreciation for the multifaceted perspectives our international students bring. By allowing us a glimpse into their lives, they help create our inclusive and welcoming community at BSU.”

A mosque in Dubai with its reflection in a pool of water below

International Projects Manager Lizzie Bryant, who helped judge the competition, added: 

“BSU's global reach is core to the Go Global team. We are always keen to be involved and support our students in obtaining that reach, be that in person abroad, or through using their experiences, to internationalise the classroom here at BSU. This photo competition was an excellent way to support our students in sharing that internationalisation. What I enjoyed most about the process was seeing the range of interpretations and the wealth of creativity in our students.” 

A composite image of a duck swimming in the lake at BSU and a duck swimming in the other direction in a lake in America

You can find out more about BSU’s Go Global and International teams on our website.