What to Expect
First Ascent is a transformative experience open to all new undergraduate DU students. From challenge courses and guided hikes to cliffside lakes, outdoor climbing, artistic and life design exploration, community campfires, and ample time to simply explore and build the lifelong friends that will define your time at DU.
What to learn more. Be sure to check out these additional resources:
New Fall 2024 students must register for a specific First Ascent experience offered the following weekends during the Fall 24 Quarter:
First Ascent 2024 Trip Schedule and Details| Time Period | Date | Population | Concurrent Signature Events on Campus |
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| Summer 2024 | August 23-25 | Local CO residents or those interested in participating. Note: Students must travel to the University of Denver's urban campus on Friday, August 23 and be picked up on Sunday, August 25. See itinerary for details. | None |
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| Discoveries Orientation | September 6-8 | Transfer, Exchange, and Graduate students | Discoveries Orientation |
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| Week 1: Fall 2024 | September 13-15 | Open to all new undergrad students | None |
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| Week 2: Fall 2024 | September 20-22 | Open to all new undergrad students | Fraternity Recruitment (IFC) |
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| Week 3: Fall 2024 | September 27-29 | Open to all new undergrad students | Sorority Recruitment (PHA) |
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| Week 4: Fall 2024 | October 4-6 | Diversity & Inclusion Weekend (SIB-focused). Open to all new undergrad students. | Hockey Campout |
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| Week 5: Fall 2024 | October 11-13 | First year Pioneer Leadership Program (PLP) and Honors students | None |
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| Week 7: Fall 2024 | October 25-27 | Open to all new undergrad students | None |
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*There is no First Ascent trip during Week 6 (Oct. 18-20) due to Homecoming
Register for First Ascent! First Ascent Exemption Form
Student who are not interested in participating in First Ascent must request an exemption.
Disability Services & Accommodations
At the University of Denver, we take accessibility very seriously. If you believe you may have difficulty with access for our Kennedy Mountain Campus Ascent experiences because you use a wheelchair or have other mobility needs, please contact the Disability Services Program as soon possible so they can assist you in planning and accommodating your access. As far as your academic access at KMC, we believe that once you provide your accommodation letter to your instructors, you accommodations will be implemented.
Explore DU Disability Services Program
