Today we’d like to introduce you to James Beeks.
Hi James, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My story began nearly two decades ago when my family and I moved to Spring Branch after spending the first decade of my life in Waco, Texas. My middle and high school years in Houston were transformative. As a HS senior, I joined Genesys Works Houston, a paid internship program with a college access component. This opportunity would be the foundation of my career in college counseling. I went on to enroll at Stephen F. Austin State University and became a first-generation college graduate at 21. At SFA, I discovered higher education as a career, which led me to take on numerous campus leadership roles that prepared me for a career in K-12 and higher education. I returned to Genesys Works as a Program Coordinator and quickly fell in love with college advising. I used my experience and network to land a role in the Office of Admissions at The University of Texas at Austin, where I helped Houston-area students and families. This opened the door to future roles at YES Prep, Houston ISD, and, currently, The Village School. I am passionate about helping emerging young adults plan for postsecondary success. Outside of work, I serve on two Rodeo Houston committees: Carnival Ticket Sales and Midway Ticket.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
For certain institutions and roles, a master’s degree is the minimum requirement, and unfortunately, I have not yet earned one. From 2017 to 2018, I was enrolled in a master’s program. However, I did not complete it. The thought of continuing this journey is forever ingrained in me, so I am still figuring out what will work best. Outside of my full-time role, I run my own college counseling business, so I dedicate much of my free time to it, with the goal of making it my full-time focus eventually. After attending a recent national college admissions counseling conference, I’ve felt renewed motivation to earn a master’s degree. However, I am seeking a mentor to help me navigate everything on my plate as a professional. Leaning on others for support and advice has helped me overcome the professional and personal struggles I have encountered.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
College counseling can be a deeply personal, individualized experience for every student, and it is not always focused on the student enrolling in a four-year college or university. Working at a nonprofit, charter school, large school, selective public university, and now a private school has given me a unique lens on my approach. I specialize in helping first-generation, Black & Latino young men. In my previous role, I worked at one of Houston’s most underserved communities and high schools (Kashmere), and I built a strong reputation for preparing young men for college. Most notably, I helped three young men earn prestigious full-ride scholarship opportunities (Darren Walker, IMPACT Scholars, and Terry Foundation) to attend UT Austin. All three are still enrolled, and one is preparing to graduate with a finance degree from the top 10-ranked McCombs School of Business. What sets me apart is that I use mentorship to build trust with my students, and I use that trust to point them in the right direction and connect them with the right opportunities.
What makes you happy?
What makes me happy is getting feedback that something I said or shared with others was helpful. Whether it’s a college recommendation, tips for Rodeo season, or a Houston restaurant recommendation, I truly enjoy being a resource for others. I always say, “We live in a small world” and “It’s not just about what you know, but who you know,” so if I can connect you or share something that helps you get things done, I am happy to do so.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://qcadvising.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rodeobeeks
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beeksje
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rodeobeeks
