Allison Kuney has been a Program Leader for Rustic Pathways since 2014. She has led programs throughout Fiji and the South Pacific and is currently leading gap year students on the South Pacific Service and Ocean Skills Semester. Read on to learn more about Allison!
Gap Year Program Leader – South Pacific Service & Ocean Skills
Background and Experience
Allison Kuney has led Rustic Pathways programs since 2014, guiding students across Fiji, New Zealand, and Australia. Before joining Rustic, she worked with Outward Bound, wilderness therapy programs, and therapeutic boarding schools, in addition to completing three terms in AmeriCorps.
Her professional background blends youth mentorship, outdoor education, and service learning, making her a natural fit for long-term, immersive student programs.
Why Gap Years Matter
“Gap years give young people the space to figure out who they are—outside of family, friends, or expectations. The world is both magical and challenging, and this time helps students explore identity through real-world experience.”
Student Growth on Gap Semester
Students on Allison’s gap semesters learn tangible life skills and deeper emotional insights:
- Budgeting and group decision-making
- Social accountability and patience
- Self-care during extended travel
- Cooking, cleaning, and flexibility
“They come out more confident and capable. Watching that growth unfold is the best part of the job.”
What She’s Learned as a Leader
“Some groups challenge you, others inspire you. This current group? They’re the most engaged I’ve ever had. They push me to be better and bring so much energy to every day.”
Favorite South Pacific Moments
From glacial valleys in New Zealand to jungles in Fiji, Allison’s favorite part is the sheer variety:
“We move between tropical villages, mountain hikes, reef dives, and self-led group travel. Students get to manage budgets, cook, and lead their peers. That’s real-world readiness in action.”
Travel Story: Bao in Nasivikoso
“I have a host family in Nasivikoso, Fiji, and a little girl named Bao I’ve watched grow up over the years. Even though we’re 3,000 miles from my ‘home,’ I feel like I belong. That’s the power of connection.”
A Day on Program
“Today? Rock climbing in Wanaka, New Zealand. Tomorrow? A 6.5-mile hike to the Rob Roy Glacier. We’ll eat lunch at the base of a glacier surrounded by snow, trees, and turquoise water. One of the most grounding places I’ve ever been.”
Fun Facts About Allison
- Top bucket list item: Watching a whale migration
- Favorite custom: Māori greeting — pressing noses and foreheads to show respect
- Can cook a mean: Guacamole
- Must-haves in her pack: Kindle, coffee, and flannel
- Favorite saying: “Don’t pet the sweaty things, and don’t sweat the petty things”
- Travel count: 9 countries
- Favorite part of nomadic life: “Packing light. Living simply.”
Explore Programs Allison Leads