In 2019, the University of Georgia’s first residential study abroad program celebrated its 50th anniversary. Located in the Tuscan town of Cortona, it was the first Italian-based study abroad program of any major American university to be located outside of a major city. Cortona holds a special place in the heart of the University of Georgia community, and it had been more than a decade since the office of marketing and communications had visited to document the student experience there, and the first time using video to do so. The 50th anniversary proved to be the perfect time to do just that.
From the Judges
Everything came together in and for this video: an amazing location, an engaging focus for the video (Alys) and thoughtful editing. The entry notes that discovering Alys as the main subject was serendipity. Seeing Cortona, Italy, through her eyes, and experiencing depth and artistic passion demonstrates that a great story can carry a successful video without the need for gimmicks.This video employed the most authentic and appropriate use of drone footage, without feeling forced or obligatory. B-roll carried us along on this experiential journey and gave a tremendous sense of place. The Instagram clips were deftly integrated. Pacing, musical selection, and willingness to focus on a single person—and through her the location and program—made it a clear winner.
