How has your international experience evolved to make you an even more valuable addition to the Rustic Pathways team?

My first meaningful experience abroad was studying in Rome, Italy in 2010.  I definitely feel I caught the travel bug and was itching to go back as soon as possible.  The fall after my college graduation I returned to Rome and worked for a student travel company.  From there I transitioned to a different field– education.  I started teaching English as a Second Language in 2013 in Thailand.  This mix of education and travel experience helped pave the way for me to become a valuable program leader with Rustic Pathways.

How did you get involved with Rustic Pathways?

I met a former Rustic Pathways student who was teaching in Thailand and introduced me to the company, and from there I interviewed and started as a program leader in 2015.

What is the most fulfilling aspect of your job? 

When students reflect on their experiences and the programs have a real world impact on themselves and the community, this is incredibly filling and difficult to replicate.  Rustic Pathways has a certain “special sauce” that their programs an experience that students and teachers remember for the rest of their lives.

Have you traveled with other Rustic Pathways employees? What was your experience like?

I have been lucky enough to meet up with Rustic Pathways staff members in the United States, Cambodia, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Mainland China, the Dominican Republic, Turkey, Myanmar, and Laos.  I can tell you fun stories from every meetup!  Rustic Pathways attracts incredibly talented, fun, and dedicated staff that are great to work and play with!

Why do you view travel as an essential part of every education?

Personally, travel changed the trajectory of my life and I feel so incredibly fortunate that I was able to study abroad during my time in college.  I can see working with Rustic Pathways that travel allows students to question their previous beliefs, gives them a platform to take lessons learned in the classroom to the real world, provides them the opportunity to learn about themselves, their classmates, the communities we partner with and the country they are visiting.

What does a typical day look like for a Rustic Pathways program participant in Thailand?

While every day is different, a participant can expect three delicious meals, and a busy day filled with memorable experiences. We try hard to balance our programs with a mix of cultural activities (possibly a Thai cooking class), something a bit more adventurous (like white water rafting), or a meaningful involvement with local communities.  With our local community partners, students meet with leaders and also work together with locals to help accomplish tasks that will improve the quality of life for those members of the community.

What is some of your best advice for incoming participants?

Have an open mind and be willing to put yourself out of your comfort zone.