Program Staffing and Training Director Lauren joined Rustic Pathways in 2008 after graduating from Emory University. She spent her first six years in Costa Rica overseeing our operations and seasonal staff. Lauren then formed our Alumni Association where she developed programs for continuing student involvement. She now uses her extensive skill set to continue to improve the hiring and training of all program leaders across the globe. Lauren lives in Chicago, travels often, and enjoys maintaining her Spanish fluency. Published Latest How We Train Our Program Leaders and Why It Matters September 26, 2017 · 3 min read 64-80 hours. That’s how long the average Rustic Pathways Program Leader spends training for their role leading service trips for high school students after… Read more Our Secret to Crafting Transformational Travel Experiences March 18, 2016 · 4 min read Learn our secret to creating transformational travel experiences through dedicated program leaders. Explore our hiring process and what sets our program leaders apart. Read more