Give Your Teen the Summer of a Lifetime
Due to limited seats, we can only take on new students that fit certain eligibility criteria. Complete our quiz to see if your teen qualifies.
- Safe and supervised travel experiences
- Life skills and leadership development
- Opportunities to explore new cultures
- Build lasting friendships with peers
How Our Programs Work
1. Check your teen’s eligibility.
Take our quiz to assess your child’s strengths and growth areas. Get personalized program recommendations based on their needs.
2. Pick your Rustic experience.
If eligible, we’ll reach out with program options that fit your needs. Choose a program and dates that fit your schedule.
3. Complete the online enrollment form.
Once enrolled, fill out the form online in just 5 minutes with a credit card for the one-time fee. Add other documents (passport, medical records) later if needed.
What Our Programs Offer
- 📚
Teach Practical Life Skills
Equip your teen with leadership and problem-solving skills.
- 🌍
Foster Cultural Awareness
Expose your teen to new cultures and ideas.
- 🌟
Promote Independence
Encourage your teen to step out of their comfort zone.
Success Stories
“
I’m very glad I went, not only by myself, but to a place that’s far away. I’ve experienced a new level of independence… In Asia where the people are different and the culture is different.
”
I’m very glad I went, not only by myself, but to a place that’s far away. I’ve experienced a new level of independence… In Asia where the people are different and the culture is different.
”
Piper Salmon — New Jersey
“
The trips I have taken with Rustic helped me grow as a person is an understatement. Getting outside of my normal environment and traveling has made me learn where I can thrive and succeed.
”
The trips I have taken with Rustic helped me grow as a person is an understatement. Getting outside of my normal environment and traveling has made me learn where I can thrive and succeed.
”
Ella Richter — New Jersey
The Rustic Team
Anna leads educational travel partnerships with 400+ schools worldwide at Rustic Pathways. Her experiences from Beijing exchange student to leading programs across six continents shape how she creates school group travel experiences that connect students with authentic learning.
Anna Beckerman
Head of School Group Travel
Scott helps families find teen travel programs and gap year programs at Rustic Pathways. His global teaching and experiential education experience shapes how he matches students with life-changing adventures that connect personal growth learning with real-world impact.
Scott Ingram
Director of Admissions
Dr. Will Smith is the Rustic Pathways Medical Director. He is an Emergency Medicine Physician, and a recognized leader in wilderness medicine who practices primarily in Jackson, Wyoming. He is also a Colonel in the US Army reserve who has participated in Rustic Pathways programs to Kilimanjaro, Fiji, and the Dominican Republic.
Dr. Will Smith
Medical Director
Nicholas is a Babson business graduate and combines his love for travel and the outdoors. After living in California, New Zealand, Italy and Colorado, he now helps students discover life-changing programs. Nick leads ground operations for student travel and group travel programs. He also directs Rustic Pathways programs in Italy and Greece.
Nicholas Pompa
Director of Operations
Frequently Asked Questions
How many students are on a program?
Most programs have 10-20 students.
Where do Rustic Pathways students come from?
Rustic Pathways students come from all over the world. About 80% of our students are from the US. Last summer, we had students from over 25 countries!
I don’t live in the U.S., can I join a Rustic Pathways program?
Absolutely! Many international students join us each year. Please contact us to discuss costs and logistics.
What is included in the programs?
Programs include all admission fees, all accommodations, all meals, all transportation during the program, and all adventure activities.