My name is Gerene Keesler and I’m proud to introduce myself as a Tampa native with over 30 years of invaluable experience in college admissions. As an independent college counselor, my journey has led me to establish Admissions Untangled, a venture that is more than a profession—it is a personal mission.
My extensive background includes working in both undergraduate and graduate admissions offices, conducting countless mock interviews, refining college essays, editing scholarship essays, and guiding students through the intricacies of college and graduate planning. I aim to offer comprehensive support to students, ensuring a seamless transition into higher education.
What sets Admissions Untangled apart is the wealth of experience and personal connection to many students’ challenges. As a high school student, I navigated the education landscape feeling lost and undiagnosed for decades. It was only later that I discovered I am on the spectrum with various comorbidities, including being on the autism spectrum and epilepsy. I didn’t get a diagnosis until my 30s. I was able to get both a Bachelors Degree and Masters Degree from Loyola University in New Orleans, and have a certificate in college counseling from UC San Diego.It was at Loyola I discovered I could make admissions not only my career, but my calling. I led campus tours, forever known as “Gerene, Gerene, the campus tour queen,” proudly showing off my school and its many attributes to visitors.
This personal journey has given me unique insights into the struggles of doing poorly in school, not knowing how to study, and searching for the proper support. Most importantly, it teaches students the invaluable skill of self-advocacy. When not absorbed in a college essay or webinar, I’m likely at a book club or with my poodle at the dog park. I look forward to working with you and being on your team.
Admissions Untangled is not just a consulting firm; it’s a resource center for students seeking understanding, guidance, and support. My mission is to be a compass for those who have faced educational challenges like me. I am committed to providing a personalized approach that acknowledges and addresses individual needs.
By Gerene Keesler
Growing up, I always knew I was different. I had a very anti-medical family who couldn’t accept that I was differently-abled and had epilepsy, let alone the four brain injuries I’d find out about in my early 30’s. I heard my parents “couldn’t handle it”, while stressing to my now late father, that “handle it” is their job…Read the Article >>
By Gerene Keesler
Growing up, and throughout my teenage years, I always knew I was different. My family couldn’t accept that I was different medically or had epilepsy. I heard my parents “couldn’t handle it,” even though I tried to express to my now late father that “handling it” was their job as my parents. I didn’t understand why I studied as long as the A students, my closest friends, yet I constantly received a grade of C or lower, especially if the subject was math or science…Read the Article >>
Your differences don’t make you any less than the person beside you. It might be a journey navigating those differences and working through them, though there’s people willing to support you. Gerene Keesler, a college counselor and founder of Admissions Untangled, grew up feeling less than for the majority of her life. That increased dramatically when she went to college. Through it all she still managed to push through and get 2 degrees.
It wasn’t until she was recognized as neurodiverse that everything started to make sense in her life. Gerene now works to help make the college experience for students a much easier and enjoyable process. On this episode of Success is Subjective, Gerene joins Joanna to share her experience going through school feeling alone and confused in her struggles. The persistence that Gerene has shown through her journey will be sure to inspire you. Listen in for more insight on Gerene’s story as she navigated life before and after a diagnosis.
As a testament to my dedication to the field, I am proud to be a member of NACAC and SACAC, as well as an associate member of IECA. These affiliations underscore my commitment to staying abreast of industry trends and best practices, ensuring that Admissions Untangled remains at the forefront of college counseling.
I invite you to explore how Admissions Untangled can be the key to unlocking your academic potential. Whether you’re a student seeking guidance or a parent looking to support your child’s educational journey, Admissions Untangled is here to make the process transparent, manageable, and successful.
Feel free to contact me directly to discuss how we can collaborate.
Find out how Admissions Untangled can be the key to unlocking your academic potential. Whether you’re a student seeking guidance or a parent looking to support your child’s educational journey, Admissions Untangled is here to help in the college admissions process with a personalized approach that acknowledges and addresses individual needs. Based in Tampa, Florida but assisting students all over the country.
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