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ATTLEBORO - Ashleigh Simpson will pursue a passion for French literature this fall in the Oxford University Master of Studies program for medieval and modern languages in Oxford, England.

The Attleboro resident graduated Magna Cum Laude from Stonehill College on May 17, where she was a representative for the Class of 2009 in the Student Government Association and performed with the dance club and the chapel choir.

She went abroad for the duration of her junior year, spending one semester in France and one at Oxford, where she studied French Caribbean literature.

"I love languages and I've always loved English literature, as well," Simpson said.

She found the best of both worlds in studying French literature, which requires the ability to translate works to English while maintaining their literary meanings. "Studying at Oxford was really influential," Simpson said. "It made me want to go into grad school."

Born in South Africa, Simpson moved to Attleboro with her family when she was 10 years old.

At Attleboro High, Simpson was most influenced by her chemistry teacher, Catherine Botsford Milne, who she said once told her, "You have to do what you love."

In finding what she loved, Simpson said, "I definitely shopped around."

She changed her major three times before finally deciding on French with a minor in communications.

"Stonehill was exactly what I needed. They really push you to find what you're looking for."

Simpson said she hopes to continue helping the Student Alumni Association, with which she was greatly involved as a student.

As for where she will be after graduate school, Simpson isn't sure, though teaching is a possibility.

"I'm just following what I love," she said. "We'll see where it takes me."