ASHLAND, Maine — Brittany Harris, a 2015 Gauvin Scholar, is grateful to stay local while pursuing her nursing career.
“Staying in Aroostook County is very important to me for a few reasons. First of all, my family is in Aroostook and I am very close to my family,” said Harris. “I could not imagine going long periods of time without them. Also, I love the outdoors and Aroostook has so much to offer.”
Harris, an Ashland High School graduate, just wrapped up her second year at the University of Maine at Fort Kent. She is majoring in nursing and taking a CNA class to further develop her career.
“After I obtain this degree, I plan on getting my midwifery certificate,” said Harris. “My career goal is to be a midwife and a nurse in the emergency room. Within the next year, my goal is to become an EMT.”
Aside from her studies, Harris enjoys gardening, kayaking, hiking and just being outside. She has a true passion for Aroostook County, and also a strong work ethic. She maintained a full-time job while attending college full-time, and will be working full-time as a CNA at Ridgewood Estates in Madawaska throughout the summer.
Aroostook Aspirations Initiative’s intern and scholar coordinator, Jordyn Madore, said it’s motivating to see scholars like Brittany grow and become more comfortable with the college atmosphere.
“Brittany is a great example of a student taking full advantage of every opportunity presented to her,” Madore said. “It’s been a wonderful experience being able to watch her grow from a high school student nervous about entering college, to a confident college student that is able to successfully balance classes, work, and personal life.
“She has grown tremendously over the last two years and I’m looking forward to seeing what she will do in the future,” said Madore.
Harris is thankful for what she’s gained by being a Gauvin Scholar.
“It has helped me make connections that I would not have made on my own,” she said. “I have learned many skills when it comes to applying to a job and interviewing. I have made many friends while being a Gauvin Scholar.”
To learn more, visit gauvinfund.org, like them on Facebook, follow them on Twitter AAI/GauvinFund or e-mail them at info@gauvinfund.org. AAI accepts donations online, in person at AAI, 754 Main Street Presque Isle, or by mail: 26 North Street Box 138, Presque Isle, ME 04769.
