Switzerland2025

Sponsored and organized by

Sponsored and organized by Bending Spoons.

© Bending Spoons Operations S.p.A. | Via Nino Bonnet 10, 20154, Milan, Italy | VAT, tax code, and number of registration with the Milan Monza Brianza Lodi Company Register 13368510965 | REA number MI 2718456 | Contributed capital €150.000,00 fully paid-in

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Event rules

Celebrating Switzerland's finest
computer science & engineering students

Milan

April 3-6, 2025

WHAT IS FIRST ASCENT?

First Ascent is an exclusive, all-expenses-paid, three-day tech retreat!

Seize a unique opportunity—only for 20 of Switzerland’s top computer science & engineering students and graduates.

WHY FIRST ASCENT?

Network with the best

Build lasting connections with exceptionally talented students from all over Switzerland who share your passion for computer science.

Put your skills to the test

Collaborate in a high-energy environment, tackle a series of exciting technical challenges, and showcase your talent and expertise.

Learn from the finest in tech

Get an insider’s view of the tech industry from leading experts in software engineering, security, AI, and data science.

Discover Milan

Enjoy a free trip to Italy’s tech hub—where medieval architecture meets stunning skyscrapers, and past and future stand side by side.

All expenses paid

Travel, accommodation, food, drinks, activities—everything will be covered by Bending Spoons.

Switzerland2025

Why self-reject?

If you like the sound of the event and think you might be good at it, go ahead and apply! 💪

WHO ORGANIZES FIRST ASCENT?

First Ascent is organized and sponsored by Bending Spoons.

Since its founding in 2013, Bending Spoons has served over a billion people across the globe through its suite of digital technology products, including Evernote, Issuu, Meetup, Remini, Splice, StreamYard, and WeTransfer.

At First Ascent, you’ll be able to explore the company's latest advancements in technology and innovation, and tap straight into the knowledge of some of the brightest minds in your field.

”We were promised a fun event, but reality surpassed any expectation.”
First Ascent Participant
”The event was fun and stimulating. My favourite moments were the great dinner with both Spooners and Ascenders and the conversations on topics like entrepreneurship and the latest innovation trends.”
First Ascent Participant
”Overall a great experience, with amazing people.”
First Ascent Participant
WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS?

Only the top twenty applicants make the cut.

We value an excellent academic record, and cool tech-related side projects will make you score extra points.

Here’s what it takes to become an Ascender:

  • You are a university student from Switzerland—studying in your home country or abroad—or you are undertaking a full degree in Switzerland
  • You are currently enrolled in a university degree in computer science or software engineering, or you finished your studies within the last year
  • You love challenges and you’re eager to meet exceptionally talented people to share your passion with
WHAT’S THE SELECTION PROCESS?

The whole procedure takes place online, and we’ll announce the successful applicants by February 2025.

Our thorough selection process guarantees that every Ascender is extraordinarily bright, passionate, and motivated. Each step is carefully crafted to ensure your talent has the opportunity to shine.

  • Screening based on CV, motivation, and academic record
  • Online logic-based, algorithmic, and behavioral challenges
  • Online interview
  • First Ascent

Switzerland2025

Why self-reject?

If you like the sound of the event and think you might be good at it, go ahead and apply! 💪