Celebrating Europe’s exceptional
women students in computer
science & engineering
Milan
October 2-5, 2025
Applications close on May 12, 2025
WHAT IS FIRST ASCENT: WOMEN IN TECH?
First Ascent: Women in Tech is an exclusive, all-expenses-paid, three-day tech retreat—exclusively for twenty impressive computer science & engineering students and graduates who identify as women and are studying in Europe.
Why first ascent?
Network with the best
Build lasting connections with exceptionally talented women students from all over Europe 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.
Applications close on May 12, 2025
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 explore the company's latest advancements in technology and product innovation, and tap into the knowledge of some of the brightest minds in your field.
Explore open positions at Bending Spoons.
WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS?
Only the top twenty applicants make the final cut.
We value an excellent academic record, and cool tech-related side projects will score you extra points.
Here’s what it takes to become an Ascender:
- You identify as a woman
- You are currently enrolled in a university degree in computer science or software engineering, or you finished your studies within the last year
- You’re either European or you attend a European university and are eligible to travel to Italy
- You love challenges and are eager to connect with exceptionally talented people who share your passion
WHAT’S THE SELECTION PROCESS?
The whole procedure takes place online, and we’ll announce the successful applicants by July 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
Applications close on May 12, 2025
Why self-reject?
If you like the sound of the event and think you might be good at it, go ahead and apply! 💪