FAQs

What is First Ascent?

First Ascent is a two-year community and career development program designed to help recent WVU and Marshall grads build meaningful careers, create lasting connections, and establish roots in West Virginia. Members gain access to professional development opportunities, networking events, community experiences, outdoor recreation, and a statewide network of peers and mentors. 

Who is First Ascent Designed for?

First Ascent is designed for recent graduates and graduating seniors from West Virginia University and Marshall University who want to build their future in West Virginia. If you want to pursue your career in West Virginia, First Ascent can help you grow professionally and personally. 

Applicants can be employed in or out of state (WV), but must live in a First Ascent community of empha sis in West Virginia. Applicants can find career roles via any job listing site or by connecting with your Program & Career Specialist .

What makes first ascent different from other professional development programs?

First Ascent goes beyond career support.

In addition to professional development resources, memebers gain access to a community of peers, leadership opportunities, volunteer experiences, networking events, social activities, and outdoor adventures that help them build a life in West Virginia. 

Do I need a remote or hybrid job secured to apply?

Nope! First Ascent supports graduates pursuing careers across a wide range of industries and work environments. Members may work in-person, hybrid, remote, own a business or be exploring career opportunities. 

1. You can be currently working in your chosen career field. 

2. You can have a job offer in your career field with a future start date secured.

3. You can be in the last year of your degree program with an interest in securing a flexible job.

*Employment verification is requested after program acceptance.

Do I need a job offer before applying?

No. We still want you to apply now! On the application, simply indicate that you have not yet secured an eligible position. Once you submit, we will connect you with our Program & Career Specialist and your university's (West Virginia University or Marshall University) Career Office(s), where you'll be able to leverage your university's powerful employer and alumni networks, personalized career coaching sessions, and interview resources to get one step closer to the job offer you've been waiting for!

Who is the ideal candidate for First Ascent?

We’re looking for folks who long for a sense of community, thrive with new adventure, and enjoy the great outdoors. The ideal candidate is someone who is interested in launching a meaningful career and life in West Virginia. 

How are candidates selected?

To join First Ascent you must first submit an online application which will be reviewed by the First Ascent team. Top-scoring applicants will be asked to participate in virtual interviews before final selections are made. After your interview, you will be notified of your status.

What does First Ascent programming include (i.e. what are the perks)?

First Ascent includes: a professional mentorship program & success coaching, opportunity to complete microcredentials, access to the Entrepreneurship Ecosystem, social trips & activities, access to our free co-working space, outdoor gear rentals, outdoor recreation adventures, networking opportunities, community engagement, professional development opportunities, and more!

How long do I have access to my program perks?

Participants have access to First Ascent perks for the duration of the two-year program. After that, you'll be automatically moved into our First Ascent Alumni program, where you'll explore a host of new, exciting opportunities!

Will I have access to Mentors and Professional development opportunities?

Yes! Our Career Service Specialist will guide you in finding a mentor within our network and in accessing professional development offered through First Ascent. In addition, members can connect with professionals, community leaders, employers, and peers who can provide guidance, support and career insights through our networking opportunities.

How much time does participation require?

Members are encouraged to actively engage with the program through events, networking opportunities, community experiences and outdoor adventures.However, there is no required number of events or hours for our members. Members get the most value when they remain actively involved.

How long will i get to reside in West Virginia?

First Ascent participants are expected to live in one of our featured communities for a minimum of two years (i.e. for the duration of the program).

What communities can I choose from?

First Ascent participants can live in any of our featured communities: Morgantown Area, Huntington Area, Eastern Panhandle, Greater Elkins, Greenbrier Valley, Charleston Area or the New River Gorge.

If selected for the program, when will I be expected to move?

We know a big move takes careful planning, even for the most avid adventurers. With this in mind, accepted applicants will have six months to make the move to a featured community. We do recognize that individual situations may vary and are happy to work with you to ensure a successful transition to your new home.

What if I already live in a featured community?

If you are currently living in a featured community, you don't need to move! If you'd like to be considered for a different community than the one in which you currently live, however, you can indicate your preference on your application.

How long do I have access to the         co-working space?

First Ascent members have access to the co-working space (Ascend WV "Base Camp") for the duration of the two-year program, and you can use the space as as frequently as you like. Each co-working space has open floor seating, lounge areas, a kitchenette, and reservable conference rooms and private rooms for those times when you need a more secluded place to work or hold a meeting.

What if I want to use the co-working space, but I'm not a First Ascent member?

Not part of First Ascent, or want a non-First Ascent member to come co-work with you? Friends of Ascend gain access to our co-working space (a $195/mo value), exclusive events, and our insider newsletter for free. Learn more and sign up to become a Friend of Ascend today!

Why is First Ascent Focused on West Virginia?

West Virginia's future depends on attracting, retaining, and supporting talented people. First Ascent helps graduates discover opportunities, build relationships, and create meaningful lives in communities across the Mountain State. 

What happens after the two-year program ends?

First Ascent members remain part of a growing alumni network that continues to support professional connections, community engagement, and leadership opportunities throughout West Virginia. 

Why should I join First Ascent?

The transistion from college to professional life can be challenging. First Ascent provides the connections, resources, and experiences that help graduates build careers, find community, and condfidently create their next chapter in West Virginia.