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Mount St. Mary's University will host an immersive program to show high school students life on campus in Emmitsburg. (Courtesy Mount St. Mary's University)

First Ascent program to offer glimpse of life at Mount


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Catholic Review Filed Under: Colleges, Feature, Local News, News

Mount St. Mary’s University plans to give high school students a first-hand glimpse of life at a small Catholic liberal arts college in June.

The Emmitsburg university will host First Ascent, a summer program open to rising high school sophomores, juniors and seniors, in a weeklong residential program designed to introduce teens to campus life.

“The entire team that is at work on the First Ascent program is wonderfully excited about the opportunity to introduce high school students to what it means to be a college student at the Mount,” said Dean of the College of Liberal Arts Bryan Zygmont, in a news release. “Over the week, participants will have the opportunity to learn from our world-class faculty, grow in their faith at the second-oldest Catholic university in the United States, make new friends, and have an amazing time. It promises to be a transformative week.”

First Ascent will include morning courses taught by faculty in literature, theology, art, history and philosophy. It also will feature afternoon activities such as a hiking tour of the campus’ sacred spaces, an interactive program on living out Pope Francis’ economic principles in the modern world, and an ice cream-making chemistry workshop.

Each evening will offer chances to socialize with fellow participants and explore the local area through events such as movie nights, Bible studies and concerts.

Growth in faith will be a major focus of First Ascent, with activities and courses taught from a Catholic perspective. Additionally, daily Mass, adoration, and confession will be offered by Father Martin O. Moran, university chaplain, with Archbishop William E. Lori, a Mount alumnus, celebrating Mass in the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception on the final day of the program.

First Ascent, scheduled for June 23-28, includes housing and meals at the Mount’s campus in Emmitsburg, and all materials. The cost of the program is $700, including a $100 deposit due at registration. The balance is due by June 1, which is also the registration deadline. All participants will become eligible for a $2,000-per-year scholarship to Mount St. Mary’s University.

To learn more about First Ascent or to register, visit the program’s web page. To reach out with questions or inquiries, email firstascent@msmary.edu or call 301-447-5672.

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