Thank you so much for taking the time out to connect with me and for sharing your story! As your cousin, I know that you have lived a life full of WONDER. Deciding to be brave, go after your passion, and walk the unpopular route for women, is worthy of sharing with many other women who seek to do the same with their life.

Speaking of wonder and living your life full of wonder, can you share more about your story? 

I am black history. My ancestors wildest dreams.

This year on Malcolm X’s birthday (May 19th) I officially made history as the first female/African American female staff member in the history of the University of Illinois Football Program at the age of 23.

“I come as 1 but I stand as 10,000.”

Can you tell me more about how you found you have managed to connect your passion to  your career?

For me personally, it’s always been one passion, and that passion happens to be the game of Football, with a focus on the recruiting and scouting aspect of the game.

I’ve managed to connect this passion with my knowledge of the game and my “in-person” LinkedIn to continue to grow my personal brand as Ashton Washington. 

The key part of it all is being your authentic self, effort, hard work, consistency and FOCUS.

What has been your confirmation to keep pursuing your passions? What felt right to you?

My confirmation to keep pursuing my passion in Football was just keeping the mindset of.. “I’m supposed to be here and this is what I’m supposed to be doing.” I’ve never doubted myself EVER.

What setbacks or obstacles have you encountered along the way?

For me personally the only obstacle that I’ve faced is having someone steer me the opposite way of my passion/dream. Rule #1, don’t listen. You never want to wake up unhappy and go to a job you hate especially if you know what your passion is.

How have you had to pivot during these setbacks or obstacles?

I’ve pivoted this obstacle by not listening to the negativity and staying focused on my ultimate goal.

No one can live my life for me.

Looking back at your journey now, do you have any regrets? How do you maintain inspiration?

Looking back at my journey now I don’t have any regrets. 

I maintain inspiration by staying strong in Faith, reading motivational books, listening to Nipsey Hussle’s Victory Lap album and keeping my social following healthy with good spirits on my timeline.

What would you say to any woman who desires to live a life full of wonder?

I would say to any woman who desires to live a life full of wonder to always be herself no matter what and to fully understand that everyone’s journey/timeline on their goals are different. You can’t rush greatness but you can stay faithful and patient throughout the process.

“Patience is when you’re supposed to be mad but you choose to understand.”– Unknown

How can we stay connected to you? 

Twitter: @Ash3Washington

Connect with me on Instagram or Twitter or by grabbing some ‘Consistent Always’ merchandise to keep you motivated.