Meet Shea Kerry

We had the good fortune of connecting with Shea Kerry and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shea, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I started Accommodate Me Now because of personal experience and the realization that the information students and families need to make informed decisions about the education system is often fragmented or hard to access. I was diagnosed with dyslexia in elementary school, and I grew up watching my parents spend countless late nights researching options after I went to bed, taking time off work to attend meetings, and making family sacrifices so I could get the support I needed to succeed.

I know firsthand how overwhelming it can feel, not just for students but for parents too, to navigate school systems, advocate for the right accommodations, and still try to focus on learning, work, and daily life. Sometimes it feels like you are fighting that battle alone.

My thought process was that I wanted to create something that empowers people, especially those who have felt overlooked or misunderstood, to feel seen and supported. Building this business was about solving a problem I care deeply about and making the process of finding the right support system and tool less stressful and more transparent.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Accommodate Me Now is still in the early stages, but it comes from years of balancing accommodations with everything else life brings. Growing up, I spent time in tutoring, summer programs, and vision therapy, but I also played sports, took AP classes, joined clubs, and volunteered. My parents were always in the background, helping coordinate my accommodations and advocating for what I needed to stay on track.

When I got to college, that support wasn’t there anymore, and I had to figure out how to manage it all on my own. People often say college is about picking two of three: academics, social life, and sleep. But when you have accommodations, it feels like there is a fourth piece you are always juggling. Some schools make it easier than others, and every student’s experience is different, but I spent a lot of time learning by trial and error.

That’s part of what motivates me. I mentor students with learning differences to help them build confidence in speaking up for what they need and to remind them they are capable of so much more than the labels or assumptions people might put on them. I also try to share what I have learned along the way so they can avoid some of the roadblocks I ran into and spend more time focusing on what matters to them.

Creating this business has been an ongoing process of learning and adapting. There isn’t one right way to build something like this, but I’ve seen again and again that consistent effort and a willingness to listen make a real difference. In talking with families, I hear over and over how confusing and exhausting it can be to navigate all the options, and how much time, energy, and finances go into making sure a student gets the support they need. My hope is that Accommodate Me Now can be part of changing that experience, making it easier to find the right resources, to feel understood, and to feel less alone.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was visiting Atlanta for a week, I’d definitely plan a mix of good food, outdoor time, and a few classic spots. If there’s a Grand Prix on Sunday morning, we’d kick things off at Fadó’s to watch the race and grab brunch. The chicken and waffles with cinnamon butter there is the way to go.

One day, we’d spend time exploring Ponce City Market, walking the BeltLine, checking out the little shops, and grabbing lunch at one of the food stalls. Maybe end the day with rooftop mini golf or drinks at Skyline Park.

I’d also take them to Krog Street Market to grab a bite and walk the Krog Street Tunnel to see the street art.

For a more relaxed afternoon, I’d head to Piedmont Park with some iced tea from Caribou or have a picnic if the weather’s good. If it’s warm, maybe go to the Botanical Garden.

We’d also make time to check out the High Museum of Art, World of Coca-Cola, or the Center for Civil and Human Rights, depending on what they’re interested in.

At least one evening would have to be dinner at Barcelona Wine Bar for the Tapas or Mary Mac’s Tea Room for some classic Southern food. If there’s live music happening, we could catch a show at Variety Playhouse or Terminal West.

After a night out, we’d definitely take a walk to Cook Out to grab milkshakes. At some point, I’d plan a low-key dessert stop at Jeni’s or Alon’s.

The best part of Atlanta is that there’s always something going on, so we’d probably end up adding a festival, farmers market, or an outdoor movie night to the list too.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I am so grateful for the people and organizations who have shaped my journey. First, I want to thank my parents, Deb and Rob, and my brother, Jadon. Their support, sacrifices, and encouragement have meant everything to me, and I would not be where I am today without them.

I want to thank Lauren Witheridge, who saw past my struggles in high school and helped my light shine. I’m also grateful to the Joseph James Morelli Legacy Foundation for supporting me and so many other neurodivergent students through college. The Georgia Tech Female Founders community who believed in me and provided continuous mentorship. Additionally, Create-X at Georgia Tech for giving me the opportunity to work toward launching my venture.

And finally, to the countless other teachers, mentors, friends, and advocates who have been there for me along the way, you know who you are, and I’m grateful for each of you.

Website: https://www.accommodatemenow.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheakerry/