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Himmelfarb Headlines: Congratulations to Nick Van Dyke - 2025 Spring Flowers Photo Contest Wnner

Himmelfarb Headlines

Congratulations to Nick Van Dyke - 2025 Spring Flowers Photo Contest Wnner

Cherry Sunburst, by Nick Van Dyke, Student, SMHS - Winner, 2025 Spring Flowers Photo Contest

Himmelfarb Library extends its congratulations to Nick Van Dyke, winner of the 2025 Spring Flowers Photo Contest! Once again, the contest had so many excellent entries that our judges had a hard time deciding, but Nick's photo topped the list due to its composition, use of light, and originality. Make sure to check out the Spring Flowers Photo Contest Gallery to see all the wonderful photos that were entered! You can also see them displayed on the bulletin board at Himmelfarb.

To get to know Nick, we asked him a few questions:

The Rotation: Can you share your journey to GW? What led you to pursue an MD degree?
Nick Van Dyke: I took a somewhat unconventional journey to GW as I originally majored in mechanical engineering at UVA and worked for a few years before attending a post-bac program and applying to medical schools. My family and prior work experience certainly influenced my desire to shift careers and pursue an MD degree.

The Rotation: How long have you been taking photographs, and what are your favorite subjects?
Nick Van Dyke: I've been taking amateur photographs since I was young, and my favorite subjects tend to be landscapes and nature shots. I also love wildlife photography!

The Rotation: What can you tell us about how you got that winning shot?
Nick Van Dyke: I woke up early to bike to the Tidal Basin and photograph the cherry blossoms at sunrise. I almost didn't go since it was cloudy, but the clouds actually made for some beautiful shots of the sun breaking through shortly after sunrise.

The Rotation: How did you hear about the Fall Colors Photo Contest?
I've been participating in the various photo contests since arriving at GW and am excited to have been selected as the winner for this one!

The Rotation: What is your favorite spot in Himmelfarb Library?
My favorite spots in Himmelfarb Library are the group study rooms and tables on the second floor.

Contest winner and Library staff

Nick, a 3rd-year med student, poses with members of Himmelfarb Library's Healthy Living Committee (from left, Lonnie Williams, contest winner Nick Van Dyke, Deborah Wassertzug, Laura Abate)

Want to join the fun? Look for our announcement of the Fall Colors photo contest this coming autumn!