Hannah Kim is graduating with two bachelor’s degrees; one in Fine Arts in Illustration and Animation, and another in Science in Marketing. Between school, internships, and now working as motion graphics animator, Hannah is immersed in creative visual story telling. In her free time, she likes to watch movies with friends and confesses to guessing – and sometimes accidentally spoiling – the endings.

Why did you choose UConn?
I chose UConn primarily because it was the most affordable option. Initially, I wanted to attend to an art school, but my parents found it was more financially feasible to go to UConn. Because of my passion for art, I thought about transferring out of UConn through my first year. As I got to make more friends and met great artists and professors, it further solidified my decision to stay at UConn.

What’s your major and why did you choose it? 
I am a dual degree student, and I chose my majors to give me more opportunities and choices in the future. I chose Art, concentration illustration/animation, because it’s my passion and I am in interested in visual storytelling. I’ve practiced drawing starting at a young age. I was also interested in film and animation, I thought animation had the most overlap between illustration and film.

I also chose marketing at the school of business. It was the only other major that had a lot of creative opportunities while having more job security. I learned so much about people, identity, and value through my classes. In the end, I am choosing to follow my passion for art rather than marketing, but it was a still valuable experience.

What are your plans after graduation?
My dream is to work for an animation studio as a visual development artist. I want to take all the skills and knowledge I gained and apply them to future projects. I eventually want to go to graduate school to further expand my education and knowledge of art.

What activities were you involved with as a student?
I was involved in the SMFI chrome extension tab initiative as the graphic design lead. The SMFI (Student Medical Fund Initiative) is a project to generate ad revenue that will eventually be donated to students who cannot afford basic healthcare. I designed the overall layout of the website, icons, and logo components. Additionally, I designed flyers and logos for other organizations as well.

How has UConn prepared you for the next chapter in life?
UConn has prepared me to enjoy learning. I think it is due to the fact the UConn is very much a research-heavy school. Whenever I have any art-related projects, I look to libraries, archives, and other resources UConn has provided for students. I always want to take my ideas to a deeper level that are influenced by my research whether it’s from a historical or conceptual perspective. This is a skill that only helps me improve as an artist.

What’s one thing that surprised you about UConn?
The campus is really beautiful. I enjoy the nature and vegetation throughout the buildings. Occasionally, I walk around campus alone listening to new music and enjoy the scenery.

Any advice for incoming first-year students?
Make most of your college experience. Grades matter to an extent, but it doesn’t guarantee you a job or a sustainable future. Always make room for other activities and friends. They are the reason why I was able to overcome challenges throughout my college career.

What’s one thing every student should do during their time at UConn?
I recently attended a drag show on campus, and it was spectacular. I have huge respect for drag queens and their performance, so it was a very enjoyable experience.

Who was your favorite professor and why?
My favorite professor is Professor Alison Paul. I’ve took her classes for around 3 years now and I truly think she is a great mentor when it comes to illustration and animation. She is always helpful and gave me good, and necessary advice and critique. Not only have I learned how to handle critique better, but also apply them to further improve my work.

What’s one thing that will always make you think of UConn?
Any husky of any kind will always remind me of UConn. It is everywhere on campus and it’s a great representation of our school.