Hannah Baumgardner - Ecuador Study Abroad (8 pts.)

 

Hannah Baumgardner (C/O '26) - Ecuador Studying Abroad (8 pts.) 

    For four weeks in Ecuador, my classmates and I attended the Amauta Spanish School, where we gave multiple presentations, completed tests on the curriculum, and read novels in Spanish. Additionally, to help ease us into Ecuadorian culture, we were warmly welcomed by the Afro-Ecuadorian community through a cultural performance and a dance at school. Following the performance, we had a traditional Afro-Ecuadorian lunch which consisted of fried fish, plantain, rice, and a dessert. While waiting for my plate, I remember thinking about how much the food smelled like my grandmother's cooking. The familiar dance movements and smells of fried food reminded me that there is an intrinsic link among the Black diaspora, regardless of what country one finds themselves in. 

    Reflecting on this experience, we, as a group, were definitely pushed to the maximum. Every weekend was filled with a cultural excursion (a trip to Vilacabamba, Ingapirca Ruins, Pailón del Diablo, etc.) while every weekday ended with a community activity hosted by the school. While I appreciated the program's structure, it was hard for our group to maintain momentum, especially considering how exhausted we were when we arrived. I would absolutely consider the amount of exposure to Ecuadorian culture to be a strength of the program, but in the future, time for rest should definitely be factored in. 

    Overall, my experience in Ecuador has helped me grow tenfold. For a month, I researched, wrote, and conversed solely in Spanish, forcing my brain to rely only on the language around me. Although the adjustment was initially overwhelming, the support of my classmates, professors, and the Amauta community helped me gain confidence in myself and my abilities. I quickly realized that if I did not open my mouth to speak, I could never improve because I would never be corrected. Furthermore, spending time in Ecuador confirmed my desire to live abroad one day and eventually work in international affairs. I plan to continue filling my summers with worldly endeavors and ultimately enter a career where cross-cultural communication and global awareness are essential. 

    From visiting the middle of the world to connecting with my host family, every memory made in Ecuador is one I will always cherish. I am beyond grateful for my transformative month abroad, as it has greatly impacted my perspective and life.