In 1903, she formed the Akademiskt Bildade Kvinnors Förening or ABKF ('Society of Women Academics') which influenced the government to address the issue of gender discrimination, which ultimately resulted in the Behörighetslagen, a law which formally declared almost all professions and positions in society open for both men and women.

She continued her studies in Uppsala University and graduated from the bachelor's degree in 1891 after which, she traveled in Italy and France, living in Paris.

When she was not allowed to apply for an associate professorship, she decided to start her own girls' school.

In 1907, Ahlström employed a younger teacher, Ellen Terserus (1867-1943), who became the school's director.

Ahlström led this free school together with Ellen Terserus, her life partner.