TAUNTON — Ashton O'Connell, daughter of Mayor Shaunna O'Connell, is Taunton born and raised, but her aspirations lie far from home.
Soon, 18-year-old O'Connell will attend the United States Military Academy at West Point — one of the most prestigious military academies in the world.
At the school, she said, she hopes to study international relations and pursue a career in diplomacy.
Though O'Connell wants to serve around the world, it's been her experiences here in Taunton that have led her to strive for such great heights.
O'Connell just graduated from Taunton High School, having participated in extracurriculars like DECA and Latin Club.