Keoshia Banks was born in Saginaw, Michigan, but raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Wanting to remain close to home, she attended the University of Michigan where she majored in psychology. Keoshia chose to study psychology because she knew it would allow her to better understand the human mind and behaviors. After completing her undergraduate degree, she completed a year of service with City Year AmeriCorps Little Rock/North Little Rock. As an AmeriCorps member, Keoshia mentored and tutored eighth grade students, helping them to become proficient in math and English. Upon finishing her work with City Year, she moved to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to pursue a Master of Public Health at Drexel University concentrating in community health and prevention.