Meet Ashton

Ashton is a junior Zoo and Consveration and Biology major, with a minor in sustainability. Her aspiration in life is to work in the realm of conservation education (how cool!). One of her favorite hobbies is rock climbing and she is also really good at it! When I met Ashton for the first time, I knew that she was real. The way that she presents herself is completely genuine, and I am so happy that I can call her my not only a friend but my sorority sister as well. She is a hard worker and it is a quality that is incredibly admirable. We all have a story, and I was curious as to if she would share a little bit of hers. I do not know the full story but what she shared was amazing and so unique.

“One of my hardest life experiences helped shape what I want to help protect in the world. I see the value of other organisms of this world and how we should work to help protect biodiversity. My life changing event was an animal I worked with (and stole my heart) and he opened my eyes to issues facing his species that I had not considered before. Now I actively work to share this issue and ways to solve it.”

Ashton has such an amazing personality and I also wanted to know how she feels that she lives unapologetically.

“I live unapologetically by speaking my opinion about issues that I understand and work to help solve. My methods may not always be considered the “convenient” options or many times people disagree with my morals, but I believe that people have the ability to make a positive impact in their daily lives for the natural world and I want everyone to feel empowered in that regard. Every little thing adds up!”

Not only did she say this but she truly does live this way. It is hard to live up to the words that come out of our mouths, but Ashton is a pure example of how to live out what we say. I admire her will to speak out about what she is passionate and educated about. As people we have such a hard time being vocal about things we are passionate about, or when we are vocal, we feel the need to apologize because it may offend someone. No, we should not be offending anyone, but it is important to have challenging views so that way we can grow as individuals. Do not feel the need to apologize for your opinions and your views on life, they are important. You will grow as a person when you let go the fear of judgement for being yourself.