And the winners are ...

This year's SAIS Europe class has chosen.

Last week we published a series of photographs that our students felt captured the gist of their experience here in Bologna. Today we post the four pictures that the Class of 2014 voted as their favorites. We post four because of the quality of the photos and because the vote, by members of the class, was excruciatingly close.

The winning entry was shot by Samuel Semwangu, whose photo will be framed and mounted in the Bologna Center building for posterity. And he will receive a framed copy.

Samuel Semwangu

Here is what Samuel had to say about the photo: "It was one of those great spring Saturdays in Bologna. Six of us decided to hike into the hills south of the city to make the most of it. An hour or so in, we found in Parco Villa Ghighi the ideal spot for lunch outside. The company, the food and the surroundings came together to form a lasting experience. The photo, which was taken with an iPhone 5, I think captures the essence of the day and what we as SAIS students will remember most from our time together in this wonderful place."

There are two first runner-up photos (the vote was a tie), one by Alexandra Queirolo and the other by Jag Ningthoujam. They will receive framed copies of their photographs -- both of which were shot in black and white.

Alexandra Queirolo

Jag Ningthoujam

The second runner-up photo was taken by Alix Davie, who like Alexandra focused on the friendship theme. Alix will also receive a framed copy of her picture.

Alix Davie

Thanks to all of the photographers who participated and who submitted such fine photos. All the best to the Class of 2014.

Nelson Graves