STACYVILLE, Maine — Megan Cole is the 2016 Katahdin Trust Company Gauvin Scholar and is a graduate of Katahdin Middle-High School. She attends the University of Maine at Fort Kent, where she is majoring in elementary education.
“I was originally going to nursing school, but I started to notice my love for teaching and how much I love being at a college,” said Cole. “I decided on becoming an elementary teacher for now and eventually get my masters and become an adjunct professor or academic advisor to college students.”
While Megan had a change of heart with her major, she also adds that being a Gauvin Scholar has changed her in a positive way.
“Being a Gauvin Scholar has been very beneficial to me because I am a very shy person. The scholarship really makes you outgoing and able to actually talk to people,” said Cole. “I was so shy and this scholarship has helped me combat my shyness. Now, I can talk to almost anyone without feeling nervous.”
Being able to pursue a college degree close to home was important to Megan, as she finds the qualities of her home County desirable and unique.
“I am a native of The County and I really didn’t want to leave it. I find that the people in Aroostook County are much more friendly, compassionate and funny,” said Cole.
Aroostook Aspirations Initiative’s Executive Director Kristen Wells said having that passion to study and live in The County is wonderful to see and is important to have when becoming a Gauvin Scholar.
“It is incredible to witness the transformation of students during their college experience,” said Wells. “When I first met Megan, I could see how determined she was to take the opportunities provided to her through our program and at the University to challenge herself in new ways. With her dedication, ability to overcome fear and self-doubt, and whole-hearted approach to everything she does, there is no limit to what Megan can accomplish.”
To learn more, visit gauvinfund.org, like them on Facebook, follow them on Twitter AAI/GauvinFund or e-mail them at info@gauvinfund.org. Donations can be made online, in person at AAI, 754 Main Street Presque Isle, or by mail: 26 North Street Box 138, Presque Isle, ME 04769.
