Hi WIN community! My name is Ashleigh-Paige McDonald. Yes, TWO first names—a dual name for my dual persona, balancing intellect and creativity, discipline and flair. Being a student isn’t limited to classrooms; it’s about applying lessons in every corner of life, and that’s what I’m here to share as I’m beyond ecstatic to introduce myself as a Social Media Marketing Intern through the WINtern Program.
Who Am I?
I am a 4th-year Echols Scholar at the University of Virginia, graduating this May with a Media Studies major concentrating on sociology. My academic work focuses on how marginalized identities are presented and represented, but my studies have taught me that learning emerges anywhere and thrives in unconventional spaces. For example, my current favorite class is Costume Design—a leap from my formal academic focus—because it challenges my creativity by putting me in a position both unfamiliar and uncomfortable but necessary for my inner child who dreamed of being a fashion designer.
Outside the classroom, I’ve embraced an entrepreneurial mindset by identifying and filling gaps in my community. Six years into my loc journey, I’ve turned my love for hair care into LocStar Treatment, a service where I offer more than styling—I provide guidance, confidence, and allyship. Every interaction with my clients becomes an opportunity to exchange knowledge, reminding me that education is both reciprocal and deeply personal.
A Few Fun Facts
Fashion Lover: I am one to sport an outfit on and off camera! Clothes are essential to how I express myself, and putting together a look feels like crafting art. Fashion has taught me how to be resourceful and creative, showing me that personal expression can be a powerful form of communication.
Cooking Enthusiast: Once terrified of cooking, I now find it therapeutic. There’s joy in following a recipe and even more in spicing it up with personal flair. Cooking has taught me patience and adaptability, both of which are crucial when approaching creative problem-solving.
Advocate for Mental Health: My academic journey fuels my advocacy for self-care and inclusion. I believe stories—whether told through media, fashion, or conversation—hold transformative power. Sociology has taught me how to use storytelling as a tool for awareness and healing, which I apply when creating content or engaging with communities.
Aspirations from a Student
As much as I love my studies, I see myself as so much more than my academic path. In the future, I dream of owning a media/marketing firm, pursuing an MBA, and continuing to amplify narratives of marginalized identities. My roles as Brand and Social Media Manager for Reclaimed Hope Initiative and Publicity Intern for the Virginia Film Festival have taught me the importance of applying theory to practice. These experiences reinforced my belief in the power of storytelling and how it can foster meaningful connections. Each of these roles has been an extension of my student mindset, teaching me to value feedback, iterate on ideas, and strive for authenticity.
Why WIN?
Three words: community, empowerment, and faith.
I’ve worked with nonprofits before and loved it, but WIN stands out. The women-oriented and spiritually grounded approach spoke to me immediately. During my first Morning Motivation Clubhouse meeting, I heard gospel music playing, and I almost cried. This is more than professional growth; it’s personal alignment. WIN offers me the chance to continue being a student by applying what I’ve learned while learning from the mentorship and experiences of incredible women who inspire me to grow even further.
Let’s Connect!
I can’t wait to dive into this journey and connect with each of you!
With love,
Ashleigh-Paige McDonald
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