Final answer:
The first step of meiosis I is when a. DNA condenses into visible chromosomes during Prophase I, and the nuclear envelope begins to break down.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the first step of meiosis I, the correct answer is A. DNA Condenses from Chromosomes. This stage is known as Prophase I, where several critical events occur: the nuclear envelope begins to break down, chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes, and the spindle apparatus forms. Moreover, homologous chromosomes pair up in a process called synapsis, and crossing-over can occur, which is pivotal for genetic variation. It is during prophase I of meiosis I that the condensation of DNA into visible chromosomes distinctly takes place, setting up the cell for subsequent steps of meiosis where homologous chromosomes will be separated.