Kimberly M. Odusami
Director of International Initiatives
Husson University (ME)
What drew you to the world of college admission counseling?
Entering the field of college admissions counseling was not part of my initial plan. Coming from a family of educators, I began university with the goal of following in their footsteps. While attending the University of Maine at Machias, I became a work-study student in the admissions office and served as a student ambassador. During that time, I had the unique opportunity to be developed as an admissions counselor by a group of passionate and dynamic professionals. Their mentorship introduced me to the excitement and energy of the admissions field while also offering a realistic perspective on its challenges and rewards. Through that experience, I came to understand how meaningful this work is to assisting perspective students and their families gain access to higher education and discover the possibilities their futures can hold.
What is your favorite part of the job?
Over the past 26 years, my passion for college admissions has increasingly centered on international admissions. In this work, we do more than present opportunities to students and their families. We become problem-solvers and advocates. College admissions is not simply about offering admission or meeting enrollment targets; it’s about helping students recognize their own potential and understand that, even when challenges arise, there are always paths forward. I find deep fulfillment in guiding students through the admissions process, watching them grow and persevere from application to graduation.
How has NACAC played a role in your career?
NACAC has played a significant role in shaping and supporting my career in college admissions. Throughout my time in the field, NACAC has served as a professional anchor, providing access to essential resources and trends in the ever-evolving admissions landscape, as well as a strong community of colleagues committed to ethical practices and student-centered work. Attending NACAC conferences has offered invaluable professional development opportunities, fresh perspectives, and space to engage in critical conversations around access, equity, and inclusion — especially within international admissions, my area of passion. The organization has continually reinforced my belief in the importance of collaboration, advocacy, and lifelong learning in this field.
When you aren’t working, what do you like to do?
Personally, my family keeps me grounded and has been a constant source of support throughout my career. I love to read, travel, and seek out experiences that help me grow as a person — all while cherishing quality time with those who matter most.
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing our profession today?
One of the greatest challenges facing college admissions today is navigating the intersection of access, equity, and shifting public perception — while balancing multiple expectations. The landscape has become increasingly complex due to declining domestic enrollment, rising skepticism about the value of higher education, and legal and political challenges to long-standing practices such as affirmative action. These factors have forced many institutions to reevaluate how they recruit, admit, and support students, all while maintaining their mission and values.
In international admissions, these challenges are compounded by visa policy uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, and increased global competition for students. Building trust with international families, streamlining complex processes, and ensuring a welcoming and supportive environment have never been more important — or more difficult.
At its core, the challenge is about ensuring that the admissions process remains student-centered and inclusive. It requires creativity, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to equity and transparency.
What five words would you use to describe yourself?
Keeping all of this in mind, I would describe myself as someone who is passionate, devoted, hopeful, empathetic, and resilient — qualities that have guided me, supported my growth, and fueled my continued love for the work I do.
Published July 7, 2025