Taylor Keeton is a recent graduate of Howard University where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in English. She is a graduate of Middle College High School and joined the Richmond Promise Summer Associate program in the summer of 2026.

Q: First, a few logistics. Please tell us your name, school, year in school, high school and major/intended major. 

A: I am Taylor Keeton, a nineteen year old Spring 2026 graduate of Howard University with a Bachelors in English. I am an aspiring JD/PhD candidate with research focusing on the intersectionality and comparison of Black American and East Asian sociolinguistics. I intend to use my research and expertise in international, intellectual property, and contractual law to connect communities and educate Black Americans regarding benefits of international interactions. 

Q: Tell us a little bit about yourself. Is there anything in particular that motivates you as you go through college and prepare yourself for a career?

A: A fun fact about me is I am always up to try new things, everything, and learn something. I have experience in robotics, the arts (theatre, drawing, guitar), sports (six sports in 12 years), and linguistics (proficiency in six languages). And I am self-taught in many of my interests. So my personality has always consisted of exploration and creating an environment safe for learning about the unknown. Add that to my supportive family and tendency to focus until I excel, and you get a 15-year plan. 

Q: How has Richmond Promise played a role in your education?

A: Attending college is an emotional and financial burden we (my family and I) were ready to navigate alone, and attending a private out-of-state HBCU was an additional and uncommon addition. Richmond Promise provided a guaranteed financial contribution and direct mentorship for scholarship searches, Howard University, and more. 

Q: Why did you choose to be a Richmond Promise Summer Associate and what are you hoping to take from the experience?

A: I chose to be a Richmond Promise Summer Associate because I saw the impact of legacy. It’s a common term at HBCUs, but I admit (former RP Summer Associates) Jaszwan (Veal) and Kynnedy (Cannon) became parts of my Why — Why Howard, Why RP, Why I persevere. The support they gave me became crutches when I suffered so badly, and I hope to pass that feeling on.

Q: What do you want to contribute to Richmond and/or the world?

A: I will contribute a legacy of care for youth and education. It is not a want but a plan in action to return and create programs for Black American children in Richmond to see the world. I want them to know just how big the world is and the impact we all have on each other. I want the world to see beyond orchestrated beliefs and respect people as souls and thinkers.

Q: How has your current college experience gone, and what has been the best part?

A: To be honest, my college experience was everything I wanted and worked for. I went into the world and university knowing everyone won’t come from the same teachings or approaches to relationships. But, I did everything I intended — winning my first pageant, making lifelong friends, graduating in two years, and continuing my academic journey with optimism. So I’d say the best part was my community of professors that supported further discussion and lesser known research, friends that communicate and care, and everyone you meet at random moments who share good energy.

Q: What advice would you give to a first-year Richmond Promise Scholar who is just heading off to a new college or CTE program?

A: Do everything, but in moderation! It’s so easy to get caught up in the flow of campus life and newfound freedom of college, but it is also easy to burn out when making environmental adjustments. Try three clubs or constant activities per semester or quarter to see how you handle it with your schedule. And avoid joining any executive boards (e-boards) until sophomore year.

Q: What are you looking forward to doing after finishing school?

A: As I’ve already finished, I am currently working an internship and fellowship as I apply for Sociolinguistic PhD programs. So, I look forward to submitting my applications and seeing it through of course. They’re due December 1st, so I need to get cooking soon! But, I also look forward to the lack of weekly 15 page papers and Canvas deadlines. I have more time for myself, my hobbies, and my relationships with friends and family.