International Education Week Photo Contest 2022
In celebration of cultural exchange for International Education Week 2022, we hosted our annual photo contest. We asked our participants to submit an aspect of their culture to educate Americans about what makes their culture unique, inspire Americans to travel to their country, and remind everyone that cultural exchanges to the USA are just as educational for Americans!
WINNER - Magdalena Oro Castro / Argentina
I could talk about food, beautiful landscapes, family reunions or a lot of awesome aspects that makes Argentina what it is, but what I really find representative and friendly about our culture is how we celebrate when someone graduates from their career.
When we start studying at the university we always look forward to the day that we graduate because we know it will be a special day just for us, and we will have all our friends and family sharing joy for our achievement.
The Argentine way to do this is to throw paint, eggs, flour, confetti, wine, vinegar or anything you can find to the graduate. Some classmates and friends usually make a colorful poster that says which degree they are getting so everyone knows from a distance what you are celebrating. You might be wondering why someone would want to know that, well… keep reading.
After everyone is satisfied with their work of art, or run out of paint and vinegar, we get in cars or vans to make a "tour" around the city with the new professional in the car trunk, while honking and playing some music, so everyone on the streets can celebrate too. Usually while traffic lights are on red, some graduates also get out of the trunk and dance or jump with their friends.
Finally this kind of "parade" ends with everyone having drinks at a bar or house and partying all day long… no shower included, of course. So when I'm done with my studies everyone is invited!
Thank you to everyone who shared their culture with us!