From Cubic Path

In astrology, there are two slightly different senses in which the term ascendant is used. The ascendant is the exact point at which the ecliptic crosses the local horizon in the East. It is where the planets and signs rise. The entire sign in which the ascendant falls is also referred to as the native's ascendant. So, for example, the phrases "I have my ascendant in Leo" and "Leo is my ascendant" are equivalent, and both are correct.