A Second Chance Leads to Purpose for UNCP Graduate Ashtin Bullard

There was a time when college did not feel like it belonged in Ashtin Bullard's life.

Now, the UNC Pembroke Master of Social Work graduate is preparing for a future centered on advocacy, service and helping others find stability through difficult moments.

“Helping people is what drives me,” Bullard said.

At 31, Bullard is a mother of three and a recent first-generation college graduate from Laurinburg. Growing up, she spent much of her time in nearby communities like Maxton, where hardship and instability often felt ordinary.

“As a child, I thought it was normal,” she said. “Now I see how much of it wasn't.”

Over time, those experiences, along with seeing the effects of addiction on people close to her, helped shape her understanding of advocacy, support and the kind of work she wanted to pursue.

After earning her associate degree from Robeson Community College in 2017, Bullard enrolled at UNC Pembroke but stepped away during her first semester while balancing full-time work, motherhood and personal challenges.

“I had two babies, I was working full time and I was trying to survive,” she said.

When she returned in May 2022, she brought a different sense of purpose.

“It was personal,” she said. “I felt like I had to give back, especially to Robeson County.”

After earning her bachelor's degree in criminal justice in 2024, Bullard continued into UNCP's Master of Social Work program, where she is now preparing for licensure as a clinical social worker and addiction specialist.

Early in her studies, Bullard's motivation was rooted in frustration. After witnessing the effects of drug addiction on the people she loved, she believed helping meant stopping those responsible.

“At first, I thought helping meant getting drugs off the streets,” she said.

But through coursework and field experience, her perspective began to shift.

“I realized I couldn't lead with anger anymore,” Bullard said. “I had to lead with understanding and focus on helping the people who were struggling.”

That shift from punishment to understanding reshaped her path. Now working in mental health, Bullard draws from her lived experiences to connect with others facing substance use and trauma.

“I take it personally,” she said. “Because I've been there.”

Faculty support played an important role in helping her stay on track, especially during moments when balancing school, work and family felt overwhelming.

Dr. Shannon Cousineau, assistant professor and MSW program director, said Bullard's growth reflects the determination of nontraditional students who continue to push forward despite obstacles.

“Ashtin has truly grown during her time in the MSW program,” Cousineau said. “Each challenge strengthened her empathy and deepened her commitment to justice and service.”

Bullard credits her children as her strongest motivation.

“They're my reason,” she said.

She also carries the memory of a close friend lost to overdose — a loss that deepened her commitment to helping others facing addiction and crisis.

“If I can reach one person before it's too late, that's enough reason to keep going,” she said.

And with her degree now hanging on the wall, Bullard hopes her story reaches those who may feel college isn't meant for them.

“You don't know until you try,” she said. “Find your passion and go with it.”

Her journey has not been linear, but it has led her to a place where her past now informs her purpose.

“Don't give up,” she said. “Keep pushing.”