FAIRFIELD — Kristie Harris of Waterville has been named Kennebec Valley Community College’s Student of the Year.

The nursing student was one of nine finalists considered for the honor.

A selection committee made up of faculty members and staff chose Harris based on qualifications that included academic performance, community involvement and an essay about her college experience, according to Jonathan Humphrey, marketing specialist at the college.

“The Student of the Year is a role model, someone whose experiences represent those of their fellow students and show them by their success – you can do it too,” Dean of Students Karen Normandin said.

Harris, 33, is on target to graduate in May with an associate degree in nursing.

Humphrey said Harris hopes to work as a psychiatric nurse while pursuing a four-year nursing degree at the University of Maine at Fort Kent.

Harris, a former mortgage broker, said her interest in nursing began as a result of friendships she forged with nurses during a family medical crisis.

The wife, mother and full-time worker was encouraged by staff to pursue her education and new career, Humphrey said.

All Maine Community College Students of the Year will be honored April 25 at a ceremony in Augusta, where they will be presented with scholarships.