University of Denver Spring 2025

Finding Community in the Rockies 4D Peer Mentors create connections and memories under Colorado’s starry skies. James C. Kennedy Mountain Campus

At the James C. Kennedy Mountain Campus (KMC) in northern Colorado’s Arapaho and Roosevelt national forests, 4D Peer Mentors usher in the newest class of DU students during First Ascent, a weekend where undergrads get to know their peers and try quintessential mountain activities like late-night campfires, horseback riding and dangling 50 feet off the ground on a via ferrata. And the program works—98% of students agreed that their First Ascent experience helped them build new connections, and 95% agreed that First Ascent encouraged them to step out of their comfort zones, thanks to the welcoming atmosphere that their peer mentors create. It’s a student job with the dual perks of getting to be in nature and helping build community. Here’s what some of the mentors had to say about their time spent at KMC this past year.

“ KM C is s p e c ial , not j ust be c ause o f ho w you are completely enveloped in breathtaking, untamed wilderness, but because of the amazing team that bonds together to make the First Ascent experience simply incredible on all fronts.” – M ichael G oldstein

“ M y favorite part is when I’m able to do activities like the via ferrata with students. It’s a daunting couple of hours, but at the end everybody is so excited and proud of themselves. It’s super rewarding to get to say you climbed a mountain, and being there for that excitement is so fun.” – R obin Bell “ I am able to be present with my friends and peers. I am not stressed about homework and project deadlines. I get to enjoy the beautiful mountains, fresh air and outdoor activities.” – Aviana R eyes

“Being outdoors is an essential part of living in Colorado, and not many college campuses give you a taste of activities in that state ! ” – Caley S hi fl ett

“ M y best memory working at K M C was being able to stargaze after my shift.” – G us E merson

26

UNIVERSITY OF DENVER MAGAZINE | SPRING 2025 UNIVERSITY OF DENVER F MAGAZINE | SPRING 2025