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Empowering Students for a Bright Future
At John Carroll High School, our College Counseling program is committed to guiding students toward their highest potential. Our values reflect our dedication to providing personalized, comprehensive support that prepares students for success in higher education and beyond.
Core Values of Our College Counseling Program:
- Personalized Guidance: We believe in the power of individualized attention. Our counselors work closely with each student to understand their unique strengths, interests, and goals, crafting a tailored plan that aligns with their aspirations.
- Holistic Support: Our approach goes beyond academics. We support students’ emotional, social, and spiritual growth, ensuring they are well-rounded individuals ready to thrive in college and life.
- Accessibility and Inclusivity: We are committed to making the college application process accessible to all students, regardless of their background. Our counselors provide resources and support to ensure every student has the opportunity to pursue higher education.
- Empowerment Through Knowledge: We equip students with the information and skills to make informed decisions about their future. From college selection to financial aid, we provide comprehensive guidance every step of the way.
- Community Engagement: We foster a sense of community and collaboration, encouraging students to engage with their peers, families, and the broader school community in their college journey.
Support for Students in Grade 12
Our dedicated counselors work one-on-one with seniors, helping them navigate the complex college application process. From crafting compelling personal statements to managing application deadlines and preparing for interviews, our counselors provide expert advice and support tailored to each student’s unique needs. This personalized approach ensures that every senior is well-prepared and confident as they take the next step in their educational journey.
Support for Students in Grades 9-11
Our commitment to student success extends beyond the senior year. We support students in grades 9-11, helping them build a strong foundation for their future college applications. This includes:
- Academic Planning: Assisting students in selecting courses that align with their college and career goals.
- Extracurricular Guidance: Encouraging involvement in activities that reflect their interests and strengths.
- Early College Awareness: Providing information and resources about the college admissions process, financial aid, and scholarship opportunities.
- Skill Development: Offering workshops and seminars on study skills, time management, and other essential competencies.
- Career Exploration: Providing resources and opportunities for students to learn about various careers, including guest speakers, job shadowing, and internships. Utilizing tools and assessments to help students identify their interests, strengths, and potential career paths.
We invite all students and their families to take advantage of these opportunities to explore their college options and gain valuable insights into the admissions process. Our dedicated counselors are here to support you every step of the way and ensure you are well-prepared for the exciting journey ahead.
For more information about our College Counseling program, please contact a member of our guidance staff:
Melissa McWhorter (9th & 10th grade counselor) - Mmcwhorter@johncarrollhigh.com
Jo Beckum (11th & 12th grade counselor) - JBeckum@johncarrollhigh.com
Erica Power (College & Career Counselor) Epower@johncarrollhigh.com
Meet our Guidance Team
Jo Beckum brings 19 years of experience in education, dedicated to supporting students’ academic, social, and emotional growth. She holds a Master of Education in Counseling from Augusta State University and maintains a Florida Teaching Certificate in School Counseling (K–12).
Throughout her career, Ms. Beckum has served as a high school counselor and has also worked in residential and outpatient settings with at-risk youth, providing guidance and support to help young people succeed in school and beyond. Her diverse professional background allows her to connect with students from all walks of life.
Originally from Augusta, Georgia, Ms. Beckum values building strong relationships within the school community. At home, she embraces her role as the “fun aunt” to Emma, Charlotte, and Beck.
Outside of work, she enjoys adventures that include exploring coffee shops, discovering great books, and browsing antique stores. A unique chapter of her life includes living for five years in a “warming house” along cross-country ski trails in Winter Park, Colorado.
Ms. Beckum is passionate about helping students navigate challenges and reach their full potential while making their high school experience meaningful and memorable.
Erica Power brings nine years of experience in education and school counseling, with a strong commitment to student success and college and career readiness. She earned both her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and her Master of Science in Education in School Counseling from Monmouth University and holds a K–12 School Counseling certification.
Before joining JCHS, Ms. Power served as the School Counseling Department Head and College and Career Counselor at Esperanza Academy from 2018 to 2023. Her work has focused on guiding students through academic planning, post-secondary exploration, and personal development.
Ms. Power is dedicated to continuous professional growth and has participated in several notable professional development programs, including the U.S. Naval Academy Centers of Influence Program (2024), Trauma-Informed Social Emotional Learning in Tiered Systems of Support (2022), the 21st Century Counselor: Pathways of Student Success (2019), and the Pennsylvania Association of College Admissions Counselors Summer Institute (2019).
Originally from King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, Ms. Power enjoys an active lifestyle outside of work, including yoga, swimming, boating, traveling, golfing, and cheering on Philadelphia sports teams. She has a passion for helping students explore higher education and has personally visited over 50 college campuses, a goal she set early in her counseling career.
Ms. Power has been married to her husband, Rich, for three years, and they recently welcomed their first son, Will, in March 2026.