Finding Adventure and Community at First Ascent

Photos by Olivia Sinnett 

Starting your first year of college is already an adventure and, at DU, that adventure includes a trip to the mountains. Each fall, first-year and transfer students make their “first ascent” to DU’s James C. Kennedy Mountain Campus (KMC) in the northern Colorado foothills for a weekend of outdoor exploration, connection, and reflection. Now in its fifth year, First Ascent has become a rite of passage for students and a key place to make long-lasting friendships.  

Molly Valentine, a first-year business student, was one of roughly 140 campers to settle into KMC’s cabins on a cloudy but warm weekend in September. She said she appreciated the chance to meet people away from the distractions of everyday life. 

“First Ascent is really important because it puts you with people that you haven't met in your dorm or your classes yet,” said Valentine. “It's a great opportunity to get outside and get going with all of the opportunities that Colorado has to offer.”  

Throughout their time at KMC, students explored the 720-acre campus and tried their hands at rock climbing, mountain biking, horseback riding, axe throwing, icebreaker games, and more. In surveys after the event, a majority of the students said experiencing the via ferrata was the most memorable part of the trip. Part hike and part climb, the via ferrata features cables, footholds, and iron rungs along a challenging route that leads to the top of a cliff boasting views of the Rockies and even southern Wyoming.  

Amidst all the fun, First Ascent immerses students in the Four-Dimensional (4D) Experience, DU’s holistic approach to higher education that develops students’ intellect, well-being, character, and sense of purpose. During the weekend, students are encouraged to step outside their comfort zones and try new things—even when it seems hard.  

Evelina Grigoryeva, a first-year student majoring in music performance, surprised herself by tackling the lofty obstacles and rope bridges in KMC’s challenge course.  

“I'm afraid of heights—like, very,” she said. “But I challenged myself to do that, and I just took deep breaths through it. So, that was really good for me.”  

Away from the commotion of classes and campus, students also took time to relax and reflect. A key component of First Ascent is to get students thinking about their personal goals and what they want to accomplish during their studies at DU. 

Evenings were spent roasting marshmallows by the campfire, playing games, and chatting with friends. John Saltarelli, a first-year biological sciences student, said the best part of his weekend was meeting people with similar interests. 

“One of the most meaningful experiences so far has been stargazing at night,” he said. “I had a great connection with some of my peers showing them how to take photos of the Milky Way.” 

First Ascent weekends at KMC begin in September and continue through October. Keep scrolling for some of this year’s highlights!