Kenisha Cooper shares her inspiring journey of pursuing her dreams through faith and determination, from her 16-year career at Auburn University to returning to college later in life to study Entertainment Business.
Her Story
About Kenisha
Kenisha Cooper is a Building Specialist at Auburn University in Auburn, Alabama, where she helps maintain a safe, clean, and welcoming living environment for students. With more than 16 years of professional experience, including over four years working in university housing, she is responsible for maintaining four residence halls in the lower quad and coordinating with maintenance teams to address facility concerns. Her attention to detail, communication skills, and strong work ethic contribute to the smooth operation of university facilities and the overall student experience. Before joining Auburn University, Kenisha spent more than 13 years as a front Lead Cook with Cartwell & Aramark, developing valuable skills in time management, customer service, and teamwork. Alongside her professional responsibilities, Kenisha is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Entertainment Business at the Los Angeles Film School, with an expected graduation in 2028. Driven by her lifelong passion for music and entertainment, she is working toward a future career in artist management, talent management, or brand marketing. Her decision to return to school was deeply influenced by her grandmother's passing in 2018, which inspired her to reflect on her aspirations and pursue the dreams she had long held. Through her education, Kenisha is developing her knowledge of the music industry, entertainment marketing, artist management, and social media marketing as she prepares to transition into the entertainment field. Kenisha attributes her success to determination, perseverance, and a strong work ethic, believing that it is never too late to pursue one's goals. She values family, faith, hard work, personal growth, and treating others with kindness. Her commitment to service is also reflected in her volunteer contributions to the Opelika Food Bank and University Daycare. As she continues balancing her current career with her educational pursuits, Kenisha remains focused on personal and professional growth while building a foundation for her future in entertainment. Through her journey, she hopes to demonstrate the importance of believing in oneself, embracing new opportunities, and remaining committed to lifelong dreams.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kenisha
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my strong work ethic, determination, and the motivation to continue growing. After my grandmother passed away in 2018, I was inspired to return to school and pursue my bachelor’s degree, which strengthened my commitment to education and personal growth.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to never give up on my dreams, regardless of my age, background, or circumstances. I believe in myself, embrace continuous learning, and challenge myself to step outside my comfort zone to grow both personally and professionally.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I encourage young women to always give their best, believe in themselves, and recognize their worth. Never let others limit your dreams or define your potential. Invest in your education, continue developing your skills, and never stop learning.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my role as a Building Specialist II at Auburn University is maintaining a safe, welcoming environment while managing daily responsibilities and unexpected situations. The job requires physical stamina, strong time management, teamwork, and clear communication.
However, I also see opportunities to grow professionally, lead, and learn new skills. This position has taught me the importance of responsibility, problem-solving, attention to detail, and close collaboration with the maintenance team. I take pride in knowing that my work contributes to a positive environment for students, faculty, and staff.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are family, faith, hard work, and personal growth. I believe in continuously improving myself, staying dedicated to my goals, I believe in staying humble, and treating others with kindness, respect, and compassion in both my personal and professional life.
Her Content Hub
Articles by Kenisha
It's Never Too Late To Chase Your Dreams: The Inspiring Journey of Kenisha Cooper
A personal story of resilience, faith, and pursuing dreams at any stage of life.
My Journey: Faith, Determination, and New Beginnings
My name is Kenisha Cooper, and my journey is one of perseverance, dedication, faith, and believing that it's never too late to chase your dreams. I have dedicated over 16 years of my professional life to Auburn University, where I currently work as a Building Specialist II. Throughout my years of service, I have developed valuable skills in teamwork, leadership, communication, responsibility, and maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for students, faculty, and staff.
While I take great pride in my career at Auburn University, I have always had a passion for music, entertainment, and the business side of the industry. I knew deep down that there was a dream job I wanted to pursue.
Turning Personal Loss Into Motivation
One of the most significant turning points in my life was losing my grandmother in 2018. Her passing had a profound impact on me and changed the way I viewed life, time, and the importance of following my dreams.
That experience reminded me that tomorrow is never promised and that I should never put my dreams on hold. Instead of allowing grief to stop me, I chose to use that experience as motivation to create a new chapter in my life. My grandmother's memory continues to inspire me to work hard, stay focused, and accomplish the goals I have set for myself.
Returning to College Later in Life
One of my proudest accomplishments is making the decision to return to college later in life. I am currently pursuing my Bachelor of Science degree in Entertainment Business at the Los Angeles Film School.
Returning to school while maintaining a full-time career requires discipline, sacrifice, time management, and determination. There have been challenges along the way, but every assignment, class, and new skill brings me closer to achieving my goals.
Earning my bachelor's degree is more than receiving a diploma. It represents personal growth, a promise I made to myself, and proof that I have the courage to pursue something meaningful regardless of my age.
My Passion for the Entertainment Industry
My ultimate career goal is to work in artist management or brand marketing, particularly within the R&B and Hip-Hop music industries.
I have a genuine passion for music and for the creativity, dedication, and business strategies that contribute to artists' success. I want to help emerging and established talent build their brands, connect with audiences, and create lasting careers.
Through my education, I am developing knowledge in marketing, public relations, market research, communication, and entertainment business management. I look forward to applying these skills to real-world opportunities within the industry.
The Values That Guide Me
Throughout my professional and personal life, I have always valued honesty, integrity, respect, loyalty, hard work, and perseverance.
My years at Auburn University have taught me the importance of dedication, teamwork, and consistency. I believe that every position we hold and every experience we gain can prepare us for greater opportunities.
Outside of work, I value family, faith, education, and helping others. I believe success is not only measured by personal achievements but also by the positive impact we have on the people around us.
My Message to Other Women
If there is one message I want other women to take away from my journey, it is this: Never allow your age, circumstances, or fear of starting over to stop you from pursuing your dreams.
You do not have to accomplish everything by a certain age. Everyone's journey is different, and sometimes the most meaningful opportunities come later in life.
Believe in yourself, invest in your education, remain determined, and never underestimate your ability to grow.
I am proud of how far I have come, but I know my story is still being written. My goal is to continue learning, growing, and creating opportunities that will allow me to make a difference.
My journey proves it's never too late to start a new chapter. As long as I have faith, determination, and a dream worth pursuing, I will continue moving forward.
-Kenisha Cooper
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