Gap Year
A gap year is anything but a year off. Deciding to defer university for a semester or a year is often the most important educational decision a student makes, and is supported by top universities. Gap years are formative experiences that encourage personal growth while helping students determine how they want to spend the next four years and beyond.
At Rustic Pathways we have two types of gap year programs:
Our Rustic Gap Year Semesters are more traditional gap year travel programs, focusing on community service and adventure travel. Students spend a semester exploring a region of the world (Latin America, South East Asia, or the South Pacific), experiencing the best of what the region has to offer.
Our Verto Education University Credit Semesters offer students the opportunity to earn university credit during an immersive and educational gap year before continuing their education on campus. The Verto Education programs also include being accepted to one of Verto’s partner universities.
Rustic Gap Year Semesters
Golden Lands and World Heritage
From remote villages to modern cities and sacred ruins to tropical islands, this semester traces a spectacular route through Southeast Asia’s celebrated sites and best-kept secrets. While exploring history, encountering traditional cultures, living like a local, and contributing to community-driven service projects, you’ll gain a profound understanding of the region.
Learn moreSpanish Immersion: From Havana to Machu Picchu
Discover the stunning natural wonders, friendly people, and rich cultures of Latin America while studying Spanish and participating in meaningful community service projects. Learn about indigenous cultures and engage with locals through service projects and homestays in three different regions: Central America, the Andes, and the Caribbean. Whether you’re a first time Spanish language learner or nearly fluent, practicing Spanish in places with varying accents and dialects will give your skills a major boost.
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South Pacific Service and Ocean Skills
Surround yourself with sun, sand, and surf as you travel to the far reaches of the South Pacific. Visit Fiji, New Zealand, and Australia on this marine- focused, high-energy semester. In Fiji, splash in waterfalls, soak in the laid-back island life, and live with a homestay family in the rural highlands. Venture through New Zealand, and find incredible adventures at every turn. Spot dolphins and penguins and marvel at breathtaking landscapes. In Australia, learn how to surf and scuba dive, and earn certificates in Wilderness First Aid and surf life saving.
Learn moreVerto Education University Credit Semesters
South Pacific Semester: Fiji, New Zealand, and Australia
Explore the relationship between humans, ecosystems, and societies. Examine the interaction between organisms and their environment, learn about species conservation and management, and explore the complex elements that define society and culture.
Spend thirteen weeks abroad, including seven weeks in Fiji, two weeks in New Zealand, and four weeks in Australia.
Learn moreLatin America Semester: The Dominican Republic and Costa Rica
Explore international development work and systems of public health in Central America. Spend thirteen weeks abroad, including seven weeks in the Dominican Republic and six weeks in Costa Rica.
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Costa Rica Semester: Spanish Immersion
Explore relevant issues in environmental studies, sustainability, and ecology. Through seminars, case studies, fieldwork, and homestays, discover the impact of human action on the environment and ecosystems.
Learn moreSoutheast Asia: Thailand, Laos, and China
Develop an understanding of relevant issues in international business, global corporate ethics, international financial systems, and international development. This semester explores these topics through a combination of fieldwork, case studies, and seminars.
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Gap Year Scholarships
We offer scholarships to outstanding students from all over the world who demonstrate commitment to success on our gap year programs. These scholarships are awarded to qualified students based on a combination of merit and financial need. They may cover up to 100 percent of the program cost of a gap semester. Visit https://rusticpathways.com/gap-year/scholarships/gap-year-grant/ for more information.
Tom Steinemann
