James Keth ’19, Painting and Biology
2 min read
James Keth ’19
Major: Fine arts, with a minor in Biology
Degree: Bachelor of Fine Arts
Scholarships: Leadership Scholarship, University of Connecticut Fine Arts Talent Scholarship, Cynthia Reeves Watercolor Scholarship
Hometown: Quaker Hill, Connecticut
Why did you choose to study painting and biology?
I wanted to study art. It’s what I love doing. I wanted to improve my skills while learning more about the art world because it wasn’t something I was exposed to that much growing up. However, I also wanted to keep learning especially in the biological field. I was always fascinated by how living organisms worked and how they interacted. It only made sense to study both and UConn allowed me to do that.
What did you accomplish during your college experience that you’re most proud of?
I got to have my own solo art exhibition thanks to the IDEA Grant that I received through the office of undergraduate research. The grant allowed me to travel to Cambodia for three weeks to collect inspiration for the show. The exhibition was a collection of pieces that explored these multi-dimensional feelings of being first generation Cambodian-American born after the Khmer Rouge genocide that my parents went through. I gained a lot in accomplishing this project such as learning how to write for a grant, creating work for an exhibition, and installing for an exhibition.
What do you plan to do after you graduate?
I plan on applying to post-baccalaureate art programs in order to take time to prepare and apply for graduate school.
How has UConn shaped you as a person?
UConn not only helped me develop my skills and knowledge, but it gave me the environment to develop as a person. It put me in a space where I could explore who I am, but also knowing that I always had a support system if I ever needed help.
If you could summarize your experience at UConn in three words, what would they be?
Challenging. Interdisciplinary. Rewarding.
What did receiving a scholarship mean to you?
I guess the obvious answer would be that I could actually afford an education. Both my parents are refugees from Cambodia after the Khmer Rouge genocide and I am very fortunate for all of their hard work in allowing my brother, sister, and me to live comfortably, despite them coming to America with nothing. Education, however, is still very expensive and it is not something we can just afford. We three kids all are or are going to be in college. That in itself is a huge financial obstacle, so any amount of help really did matter. Being a scholarship recipient not only helped me and my parents but also indirectly helps my brother and sister seek higher education. I am very thankful for the education I received at UConn but also thankful for the financial aid I was given especially through scholarships.
Read the full article on UConn Today.
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