College Material

Beaumont United High School students returned from the Houston Black College Expo with college acceptance letters, scholarships, and renewed confidence after a day of on-the-spot admissions and awards. Led by Olivia Douglas, Beaumont United College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR) Coordinator, the trip aimed to empower students in their post-secondary journey and connect them with opportunities at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). “The on-the-spot admissions and scholarship offers motivated them to apply to more colleges and pursue additional scholarships,” Douglas said. “Now, they know they’re excellent candidates, and the only limits are ones they create.”

Beaumont United students earned more than $1.2 million in scholarships, including six full-ride offers and $1,800 in cash prizes. Among them was junior Trey Young, winner of the Grand Prize Scholarship Essay Contest, which came with a $1000 award. For many, the instant recognition from admissions representatives and scholarship providers was a highlight.

Porchea Carr, Business and Finance Program Lead, observed the transformative impact on students’ outlooks. “Their initial reaction was amazement, especially at the number of schools and the financial support available,” Carr said. “This experience significantly influenced their confidence in the college application process and expanded their future options.”

Students were enthusiastic about the range of HBCU opportunities nationwide. Senior Hattie Martin, also a Superintendent’s Student Leadership Council member, said the event broadened her college options. “The chance to network with representatives from colleges I’d never heard of was inspiring,” Martin shared. Douglas noted that the students’ excitement will likely inspire classmates to pursue their own college and scholarship dreams.