Hi everyone! My name is Ella Shambaugh and I just finished my first of three years at Pitt. I am an accounting major, with a certificate in public accounting, from Harrisburg, PA. I am also a member of the professional business fraternity, Alpha Kappa Psi and work at Duos Taqueria in East Liberty, a Mexican restaurant owned by Duolingo. Outside of academics, I enjoy hanging out with friends, doing my nails, and trying new foods, though I am always down for a quick trip to Taco Bell!

I chose the Plus3 Ecuador program because of the once-in-a-lifetime experiences I would not receive going anywhere else. I am very interested in learning about the culture in Ecuador and understanding the bridge between agriculture and production to the final products we see in restaurant and stores. I am especially excited that we will be studying chocolate production while in Ecuador, since it is an important part of the country’s culture and economy.

Personally, I am looking forward to immersing myself in local food, traditions, and learning about the community’s history, especially within the Waorani tribe. I also am eager to explore the local markets and hopefully bring back plenty of chocolate to share with friends and family. With no exact schedule, this trip will allow me to be very open and stay on my toes, and learn how to go with the flow. By stepping out of my comfort zone in Ecuador, I hope to gain a more global perspective on culture and business and develop a deeper appreciation for Ecuadorian culture!