Rose State College is proud of our students – past and present. We’re excited to introduce you to the next Raider in our “Glad I Chose Rose” series, highlighting Rose State College alumni.
Meet Danielle Cornejo. Class of 2015.
Danielle first discovered Rose State College when Emily Fisher, an RSC recruiter, visited her high school. Danielle vivdly remembers the presentation and says she left a lasting impression. A few weeks later, Danielle scheduled a tour at RSC with her grandparents. Emily, who visited her high school, guided the tour.
Danielle attended RSC from 2013 to 2015 and earned a Liberal Studies degree. She then transferred to the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) and completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Strategic Communications. She later earned a Master’s Degree in Human Relations at the University of Oklahoma (OU).
While at RSC, Danielle joined the President’s Leadership Class (PLC). She volunteered, visited local high schools, and worked with students while sharing her experiences at Rose State College.
We asked Danielle to describe her favorite memory from her time at RSC, and she immediately recalled her Senior Preview Day.
“One year it was Hunger Games-themed, and we dressed up as Capitol people,” Danielle said. “It was such a blast! What I remember most is the energy—the laughter, teamwork, and how everyone felt included. That sense of belonging is exactly what makes Rose State so special.”
Today, Danielle serves as the Assistant Director of Residence Life for The Village at Rose State College. In this role, she mentors students, develops programming, and creates positive residential experiences. Additionally, Danielle advises the President’s Leadership Class (PLC) with other RSC staff members. Danielle traces her love for helping people back to her days as an RSC student.
“I believe in higher education because it gave me direction, purpose, and a career that I truly love,” Danielle said.
“Higher education completely changed my life—but not the way I expected it to. I didn’t plan on working in higher education; I just knew I loved helping people and realized how much a supportive environment can have on a student’s life.”
When we asked Danielle who most impacted her time at RSC, she immediately named Emily Fisher.
“Emily was the first person to introduce me to Rose State and made me feel welcome from the very beginning,” Danielle said. “Getting to work alongside her now is such a full-circle moment and a reminder of how one person’s kindness can make a lasting impact. Emily continues to support and encourage me in my professional growth. She’s not only a mentor but also a friend who makes me feel seen, valued, and cared for.”
Danielle encourages RSC students to “use the campus resources and don’t be afraid to ask for help because everyone on campus genuinely wants to see you succeed.”
Danielle concluded by saying, “If you’re thinking about Rose State, go for it! You don’t have to have it all figured out when you start because RSC is the kind of place that will help you figure it out. You’ll meet people who care, professors who push you in the best way, and friends who become family. It’s the perfect place to start your journey and discover what you’re capable of.”
Visit rose.edu to learn more or apply today.