Flags are powerful symbols. While simple in design – usually consisting of a few colors and a basic pattern – they nonetheless have inherent power. The reason is obvious; they represent something far greater than themselves.
Flags represent a nation, and by extent they represent the people of that nation. Flags tell a story of their history, culture and ideology. Rooted in tradition, flags are an easy way for one to present themselves to the greater audience. When one flies a flag they not only show support for that country, but the idea of what that country is.
UGRAD participants love their flags. Every year we receive many photos of students posing with them as a vibrant and proud cultural expression. Just a few short weeks into the program, we have received many flag photos of students from Panama to Myanmar. Below, find a sampling of flags from the west and the east.