By Kasey Stevens
MU Summer 2024
A new, two-year program designed to help graduates launch their careers while staying in state aims to transform West Virginia’s future workforce.
First Ascent, a joint initiative between Marshall University and West Virginia University, is open to recent graduates interested in pursuing hybrid or remote work while staying close to home.
“Connecting graduates with dynamic remote and hybrid career opportunities allows our graduates to build their career and their community at the same time, right here in West Virginia,” said Jessica Stidham, assistant director for First Ascent. “Where First Ascent really shines is the opportunity it offers for members to move beyond traditional career trajectories in a way that intertwines personal and professional growth with positive community impact. First Ascent encourages grads to network with seasoned professionals and build work-life balance through outdoor recreation, and helps them find their place in the Mountain State. This program provides the building blocks for emerging community leaders through service and connection.”
The innovative program includes professional mentorship and development, access to coworking spaces, outdoor recreation and community engagement opportunities. Each participant also has the opportunity to receive a Remote Worker Certificate through a focused, four-week program designed to equip them for success in remote and hybrid work environments.
Members of the First Ascent program choose to live, work and play in one of six West Virginia communities: the Eastern Panhandle, Greater Elkins, the Greenbrier Valley, the Huntington area, the Morgantown area or the New River Gorge.
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply in the last year of their degree program, but candidates can also be alumni who graduated within the past two years.
For more information or to apply, visit www.firstascentwv.com.
