Today, we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Payne.
Hi Ashley, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
As a little girl from Houston, Texas., I’ve always had a curious mind. I wanted to know why and how something happened. I would be the person to say, “and then what?” My interest in exploring for sure carried over into my academics. In elementary school, I fell in love with science and became fascinated with how nature, animals, planets, the universe, and the body works; the different systems and processes. I remember seeing a picture of Dr. Mae Jemison, who was the first Black woman to go into space. Her accomplishment was very new to me, in a good way, because there wasn’t much representation of women in science or medicine. Eventually, that changed. One of my cousins, Penny, worked at Walgreens as a pharmacy technician, decided to go to pharmacy school and is now a pharmacist. As a kid, I watched Bill Nye the Science Guy’s show. I thought all that he did in his basement laboratory was so cool. I knew this was the field for me. Then, learning about Neil DeGrasse Tyson, his intelligence, and his contributions to astronomy while I was in high school heightened my interest even more. The most honorable mention is my older brother, Eric began his journey to become an optometrist. Although he is no longer with us, I wanted to continue building a legacy, something grand. Just like these powerhouses, I want to be great.
I was unsure which field to pursue, but I knew I wanted to be a doctor. Still figuring things out, I was accepted into Texas Southern University as a Biology major. During my time there, I learned a lot about myself such as my interests, short-term and long-term goals. Things took a turn beyond my control, and I had to withdraw during my junior year. Having an education was important to me, so to continue with my dream, I enrolled at CyFair Community College and earned my Associate of Science in Biology degree. My next stop was the University of Houston-Downtown, where I began to take more psychology courses and switched my major. I took an elective named health psychology, and I was so intrigued because it’s the study of chronic and acute illnesses, exploring prevalence/mortality rates amongst different populations and the treatment methods. This is where I learned about the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. I knew then what direction I was meant to take, which was to be a scientist. After earning my Bachelor of Science in Psychology, I later earned my dual master’s and Ph.D. in Health Psychology which was completed in December 2017., proceeded completing a post-doctorate program.
All while in school, I worked in laboratory and clinical research expanding my skills. Eventually, I was ready for change which meant leaving Houston to elevate my career and life in general. I began applying for jobs with the CDC which can be tedious. The interviews started to pour in, but I was never selected. I was able to move to Atlanta in January 2021 and started as a federal contractor with the CDC in April of that year, working as a scientific data analyst. A huge accomplishment for me is that in January 2022, I accepted a permanent position as a scientist. After gaining more experience, I transferred to a different division, now a scientist with the National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases engaging in human subject research, ethics, and health equity science work.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely didn’t start out as a smooth ride. My move to Atlanta did not go as planned; it was a bit unorganized and I am a person of structure. To start over in a new place wasn’t the norm for me. Being away from family was difficult, but I have managed to connect with my tribe here. As far as my career, well, there are 1.6% of Black women in STEM in the United States. So, it was difficult trying to fit into a government agency and be comfortable. Thankfully, I am on a good team who is supportive. With my science firm, I suppose the struggles of being an entrepreneur are there, like really getting my name out there and all that I offer to bring in a large client base. Overall, the struggles opened my perspective and to welcome the blessings for me.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about Payne Sciences, LLC.?
In February 2022, I launched my firm called Payne Sciences, where I specialize in scientific writing such as assistance with master’s level thesis, PhD dissertations, clinical didactic training for doctorate students, resume writing, and interview techniques. So far, I have helped a good amount of consumers land jobs, pass their courses, and even graduate. I am known for helping people see their true potential and go after what is for them. My work is above the average, I always excel and exceed. I build confidence and self-concept for professionals to dream big. I am a scientist who writes and breaks barriers through my warmth, resilience, and drive. I am just now getting to the top of the surface and so blessed the ceiling finally broke!
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
One of my best qualities is my determination. In spite of many obstacles and life-changing events, coming from an underserved community, I never gave up. Even when I wanted to quit, I kept going because I’m not a quitter. I accepted what I wanted in life by letting go of fear and self-doubt. This is my key to success with all grace from God.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.paynesciences.com
- Instagram: @ayepayne_
Image Credits
@swishsnapshots_
@thekeilanscott
@phacez.photography
