First Time Travelers

Beginner-friendly trips designed for students new to international travel

15 HOURS+ COMMUNITY SERVICE

Programs offering 15+ service hours through immersive, on-the-ground projects

Limited Space

High-demand programs with limited spots for early applicants

Browse the full collection of travel programs

AMERICAS

AFRICA

EUROPE

PACIFIC

ASIA

Start with our three most-loved regions for first-time travelers. Perfect for high schoolers and parents who want a balance of adventure, safety, and meaningful impact.

SERVICE & IMPACT

Hands-on service programs focused on meaningful community impact

CULTURAL IMMERSION

Deep-dive travel experiences centered on language, culture, and local connection

LEADERSHIP & MORE

Programs that build global leadership, confidence, and real-world skills

Browse the full collection of Rustic Pathways travel programs.

TRENDING
Japan Greece Costa Rica
Italy Fiji Korea

Chang Mo Ahn

Chang Mo Ahn
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Program Leader

Chang Mo Ahn is a cross-cultural education and data specialist with 18 years in Latin America and formal studies in South Korea. Holding an Economics degree from Yonsei University and specialized data analytics training, he blends quantitative insights with cultural expertise to support global education pathways. With 1,000+ hours of SAT, TOEFL, and AP teaching, Chang Mo specializes in student transitions across international education. A trilingual (Spanish, English, Korean Level 6), he advises on student mobility, visa logistics, and academic adaptation. His data visualization work on education trends has reinforced his authority on global student mobility and cross-cultural education.
Published

Latest

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10 Fun Facts About the Maldives to Inspire Your Next Adventure Travel

October 17, 2025 · 7 min read

The Maldives faces the risk of being underwater by 2050, but this island nation has already made headlines — from hosting a cabinet meeting beneath the sea to relying on parrotfish to build its beaches. With 2,000+ marine species and a weekend that starts on Friday, the Maldives is full of surprises. Read these fun facts about the Maldives!

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How to Afford a Gap Year Without Breaking the Bank

June 7, 2025 · 10 min read

Worried about the cost of taking a gap year? Don't worry, you've got plenty of options! Read this guide to learn how to afford a gap year and find the best bang-for-your-buck gap year programs.

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Hand-drawn illustration of the path from high school to college, highlighting gap year achievements like volunteering, internships, and skills gained

Do Gap Years Help or Hurt College Admissions?

June 7, 2025 · 10 min read

Wondering if a gap year hurts college admissions? Top colleges support them, and research links gap years to higher GPAs, stronger applications, and better student confidence. Learn how to plan a gap year that stands out on applications.

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Hand-drawn illustration of top gap year programs in the U.S., showing volunteering, adventure, and cultural exchange

Best Gap Year Programs in the USA (2025 Reviews & Costs)

June 7, 2025 · 10 min read

Don't feel like leaving the USA during your gap year? That's okay, you have options. Don't feel like staying in the USA during your gap year? That's okay, you have options, too! Read and find the best gap year programs US students can go on!

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Essential Life Skills Gained on a Gap Year: Confidence, Resilience, and Career-Ready Growth

June 7, 2025 · 14 min read

I took a gap year and felt happier, became more confident, left my comfort zone, learned a new language, met new people. Read this guide to see which gap year life skills you will gain when you go on your gap year!

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Hand-drawn illustration showing a student practicing self-care and stress relief during a gap year for mental health

Gap Year for Mental Health: How To Plan One

June 7, 2025 · 10 min read

Senior year of High School can get extremely stressful: final exams, SATs, ACTs, college applications... Taking a gap year for mental health will let you recharge and prepare for what's next. Read how you and your mental health can benefit by taking a gap year.

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The 89 Best Online Jobs for Teens & Side Hustles That Pay in 2025

February 20, 2025 · 5 min read

Explore the 89 best online jobs for teens, from freelancing and e-commerce to tutoring and social media. Find flexible, high-paying opportunities to start earning today.

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9 Fun Facts About Haiti That Aren't About When Christopher Columbus Landed In Santo Domingo

January 10, 2025 · 7 min read

Read SHOCKING secrets about Haiti: revolts. Vodou and their freedom soup!

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5 Fun Facts About Orlando

January 10, 2025 · 6 min read

Home to Mickey Mouse and the world's largest McDonald's learn more about the history of Orlando!

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