Rustic Spirit Spotlights: Corey, Gavin and Ethan

Rustic Spirit Spotlights feature inspiring young individuals who are actively making positive changes in their communities. These remarkable teens not only have made a difference, but also serve as role models to other young people.

At Rustic Pathways, we are honored to acknowledge their achievements!

Corey Rosquites
Age 17
San Francisco, California

Corey participates in many clubs that allow them to spread kindness throughout their school. As the President of the Gender Sexuality Alliance club, Corey is dedicated to creating a safe and welcoming environment for people of all genders and sexualities. Corey also organized a composting group at their school, successfully gathering a team of dedicated volunteers. Advocating for their fellow students is a source of pride for Corey.

Being a senior, Corey recently applied to several colleges and hopes to study biotech and marketing. Their participation in a mock trial this year has sparked the idea of pursuing law school after undergraduate studies. In their free time, Corey loves to make crafts for others, get lost in a book, and clean – which they find is a therapeutic activity!

Corey advises fellow students aiming to make a positive impact in their community to dedicate hard work and extra energy to one’s passions. Caring about people and situations will take you far, but also know your own boundaries and prioritize self-care. Overall, just try your best and love yourself no matter what.

Gavin Patrick
Age 18
Sullivan East High School
Bluff City, Tennessee

Gavin joins his church on annual mission trips to support communities in need, providing food and assistance. His leadership roles at church and school greatly contribute to his individual impact. As part of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) leadership team, Gavin organizes events and drives for local organizations. Gavin strives to be a source of inspiration for his peers and this role extends to his sports team, where his teammates seek his guidance during times of conflict.

After graduation, Gavin plans to pursue aviation at Middle Tennessee State University and enlist in the Air Force after college. He enjoys kayaking in the summer, hiking and bowling with friends in the fall, and skiing every weekend during winter.

Gavin says be yourself. When trying to make an impact there will always be backlash but when you stay true to who you are, it will be worth it in the end.

Ethan Hodges
Age 17
Colleton County High School
Walterboro, South Carolina

Ethan tutors students at his school, helping to boost their grades and confidence in challenging subjects. He also volunteers at the local dog shelter, lending a helping hand with dogs confined in kennels for long periods of time. Ethan spreads joy among younger students in the district by donning mascot costumes. One of his favorite activities is brightening his fellow classmates’ days and bringing smiles to their faces.

Ethan plans on majoring in pre-med to pursue a career in oncology. In his free time he enjoys listening to music, facilitating student connections with like-minded individuals and learning all he possibly can!

Ethan says to face obstacles with confidence while keeping your head held high. He emphasizes the importance of spreading smiles and kindness, as someone you help today may in turn help you in the future.

Nominate a Student

Do you know a student doing valuable work that deserves to be recognized? Nominate them here! Are you making an impact? Tell us about your work here.

Make Change

Interested in creating change in your community? Check out our guide and learn how to make an impact as a student.

At Rustic Pathways, our goal is to make positive contributions to the communities we visit through responsible travel operations and community service projects that contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.