For Italy’s finest computer science & engineering students
Celebrating ten years of First Ascent with a special edition in partnership with WeRoad.
Vietnam or South Africa
February 19 - March 2, 2027
Applications open on September 17, 2026
TEN YEARS OF FIRST ASCENT
First Ascent is an exclusive tech retreat for outstanding students and graduates.
In 2027, we’re celebrating ten years of the program with a special edition in partnership with WeRoad. The top twenty applicants will split into two groups, traveling to either Vietnam or South Africa to explore the country and network with exceptional peers and engineers. All expenses paid.
Why first ascent?
Network with the best
Connect with exceptional computer science talent, from peers who share your passion for coding to experts in software engineering, cybersecurity, and AI.
Discover Bending Spoons
Meet the company behind products like Vimeo, WeTransfer, and Evernote.
Enjoy an unforgettable trip
Spend ten days exploring Vietnam or South Africa with WeRoad, all expenses covered by us.
Italy2027
Applications open on September 17, 2026
Why self-reject?
If you like the sound of the event and believe you’ve got what it takes, don’t overthink it—apply! 💪
who organizes first ascent?
First Ascent is organized and sponsored by Bending Spoons.
Bending Spoons’ main businesses include AOL, Brightcove, Eventbrite, Evernote, komoot, Remini, StreamYard, Tractive, Vimeo, and WeTransfer.
The company’s performance is driven by its Platform—comprising its people, proprietary technologies, and proprietary data—and reflects an intense focus on achieving exceptional talent density, cultural strength, and technical capabilities.
At First Ascent, you'll hear about Bending Spoons' latest advancements in technology and innovation, straight from the engineers who made them possible.
Explore open positions at Bending Spoons.
WHO CAN APPLY FOR FIRST ASCENT ITALY?
Here’s what we’re looking for:
- You are a Italian university student—studying in the UK or abroad—or an international student enrolled in a full degree program in the UK
- You’re currently enrolled in a university degree in computer science or software engineering, or you finished your studies within the last year
- You’re passionate about innovation in the digital space, you love challenges, and you’re eager to test your limits
We value an excellent academic record. Cool tech-related side projects and extracurriculars can also make your application stand out.
WHAT’S THE SELECTION PROCESS?
Only the top twenty applicants make the cut.
The entire process takes place online—successful applicants will be announced by December 2026. We’re committed to selecting Ascenders who are bright, passionate, and motivated. Every step of the selection process helps us form a complete picture of your strengths.
- Screening based on CV, motivation, and academic record
- Online logic-based, algorithmic, and behavioral challenges
- Online interview
- First Ascent Italy
Italy2027
Applications open on September 17, 2026
Why self-reject?
If you like the sound of the event and believe you’ve got what it takes, don’t overthink it—apply! 💪