The United States turns 250, and the alumni community is celebrating with you!

The Alumni Council has organized a special series of contests to honor this milestone. Whether you left a piece of your heart in America or brought a piece of America home with you, this is your chance to share your story, creativity, and love for the country that played a role in your journey.

Pick your format:

Photo | Essay | Drawing | Meme | Brand story | Metaphor

Prizes include: water bottles, umbrellas, towels, notebooks, T-shirts, and pens. Participate and win Alumni Exchange swag!

Open to: Alumni of any U.S. exchange program
Deadline: July 10th, 2026 (6:00 PM Moscow time).

#Freedom250: Alumni Series of Contests

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1. Photo Contest: A Shot That Takes Me Back to the USA

Rules:

  • One photo taken during your program in the USA. It can be anything from a road trip to campus life to your host family and any moment that brings out your favorite memories.

  • Short description (100 words max): what is in the photo and why it’s important for you.

  • Language: English or Russian

2. Writing Contest: I Came Back Different. America in 500 Words

How did your trip to the USA change you? Write a short story.

Rules:

  • 300-500 words

  • Language: English or Russian

3. Drawing Contest: Symbols of the USA

Do you draw? Get out your brushes and pencils and show America the way you saw it!

Rules:

  • Upload a high-quality JPG, PNG, or PDF file

  • Any technique is welcome: watercolor, pencil, digital drawing, collage

  • Short description (100 words max): what is in the drawing and why it matters

  • Language: English or Russian

4. The Great American Meme Contest

Create a meme about the USA. Show the funny, warm, or unexpected side of your American experience. Make us laugh (or nod in recognition) :)

Rules:

  • Original meme only

  • Format: JPG or PNG

  • Topic: any aspect of U.S. culture, daily life, or exchange experience

  • Short description (100 words max): what the meme is about and what inspired you

  • Language: English or Russian

5. Marketing Contest: My Favorite Brand Associated with the USA

Missing late night Taco Bell? Choose one American brand – popular or regional (e.g., Publix, H-E-B, Trader Joe's, CVS, Target, Taco Bell, Levi's, Apple) and submit in one of these formats:

  1. Essay (150-250 words): Why this brand = America for you

  2. Creative photo with a product/item from the brand

  3. Parody ad (30-second video or comic strip)

  • Language: English or Russian

6. Metaphor Contest: “America is...”

Rules:

  • Submit exactly 3 short metaphors describing the USA from your point of view.

  • Each metaphor should be accompanied by a brief explanation (1–2 sentences).

  • Language: English or Russian

Think deep or think funny. Or both! Here are some examples that might inspire you:

  • "America is a library where all the books are in different languages, but everyone reads them out loud"

  • "America is a dorm fridge: everything is yours, but shared"

  • "America is a road trip: long, bright, sometimes boring, but unforgettable"

Whatever is your preferred medium, ignite your creativity and send us your masterpiece!

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