Meet Ashton Mouton ’28 Mouton entered college with plans to be a surgeon, but a sociology class changed his career path.

Office of Communications and Public Affairs
March 18, 2025

Ashton Mouton ’28
Hometown: Rayne, Louisiana
Majors/minors: Politics and sociology double major with a minor in law, justice and society

Why did you choose to come to W&L?
I came to Washington and Lee because I thrive on challenge. As someone committed to advocacy and service, I sought a place that would sharpen my mind, steady my voice and strengthen my will to serve. W&L’s rigorous academics, unparalleled resources and close-knit community provide the perfect foundation to develop the skills, resilience and perspective necessary for a life of impact.

Have you discovered a course or topic that you didn’t expect to study when you first came to W&L?
Initially, I wanted to be a surgeon. However, after taking one sociology class, I knew that medicine could never excite me the way law could.

Where is your “home” on campus?
Holekamp Hall. It’s beautiful, quiet and easily accessible.

What has been your most impactful experience at W&L, either on or off-campus?
Being a Leadership Cohort for the DeLaney Center. I am very passionate about the work that the center does, and it has been fulfilling to be part of such an amazing organization.

Have you found a mentor on campus? Who is it, and how have they helped you develop as a student?
I have so many. Professors Michael Hill, Erich Uffelman, Lynny Chin, etc.

What was your favorite class and why?
Sociology with professor Lynny Chin. Her class is powerful and thought-provoking. It makes you question things that are overlooked and come to the profound realization that everything is interconnected.

What are your hobbies/interests? How has W&L helped you develop and pursue them?
I love to run — The Chessie Trail is my favorite place to run on the weekends. I also play tennis and am on the club tennis team.

Have you studied abroad during your time at W&L? Where did you go, and how was your experience?
I have not. I will be studying abroad in Ghana, West Africa, this Spring Term. I am elated about that opportunity.

Fun fact:
I served as drum captain for my high school marching band.