“ My legal journey started off cumbersome and unpredictable. As a non-traditional student, I had to work full time during the day and travel two hours one way to attend law school at night. I would wash, recycle and repeat this routine for 3 days each week for 3 years. However, I was able to hold my own in law school earning myself a membership with Sigma Delta Kappa Intercollegiate Law Fraternity. It was tough because as a married father of four, I still had responsibilities and obligations to meet.
Shortly before graduating law school, I became very ill and as a result I was not capable of studying for years after graduating. I lost a lot of legal knowledge and was unsuccessful at my attempts to pass the bar. Many of my contemporaries and friends had gone on to become judges and very accomplished attorneys and there I was still miserable and studying. I tried every bar prep course from Barbri to JD Advising, with tutors, to no avail.
I decided to take the bar one last time after failing twice, not to mention I had not taken it since the pandemic. I decided to search google for bar coaches and found Michele. After a couple emails and a phone conversation, I was convinced that this program sound different from anything I had ever done. I knew I needed a change and something/someone that would push me and squeeze until I had nothing left to give....after all this was my last shot at a new life! Michele gave me everything I needed and then some. My new journey has just begun, because I decided to take a chance on Michele’s tactics and habits...I finally passed the bar this year 2023!
Thanks forever Michele...”
“Dear Future Lawyer,
9 and 1. These are the numbers that stand out saliently in my bar exam journey. 9 is the number of times I took the bar exam and failed before finally passing on the 10th try. 1 is the number of times I took the bar exam after using Michele’s Take On Bar Exam Coaching method of studying. Coincidentally, 9 and 1 are also the last two digits of my passing score of 291 – a score I wholly attribute to having discovered this course. I’d like to share with you a little bit of my story and how Michele’s individualized teaching methods and the support of our small group helped me rediscover my own ability, refine my study skillset, and earn back the confidence needed to succeed on the February 2023 UBE with a score of 291.
I went to a t14 law school and thought I would just take Barbri like everyone does and hopefully pass. As it turned out, the Barbri method did not work for me and I ended up failing my first try with a score in the 240s. I proceeded to live my life in 6 month intervals of attempting to study for the bar, panicking, taking the bar extremely unprepared after failing to study effectively yet again, anxiously awaiting scores to confirm my worst fears, and signing up for the misery all over again. Over the course of 2018 to 2023 I failed the bar exam 9 times, having tried various standard bar prep courses to no avail. While I was stuck on this hamster wheel of bar exam misery, my peers and friends around me moved on with their new careers, began starting families, and generally got their lives together doing what they loved. During this stagnant Sisyphean journey riddled with unshakable and anxious uncertainty over my future, I would get into cycles of self-doubt, anxiety, and hopelessness each time I tried to rectify my study habits and approach to this life-impeding exam.
Then I found Michele. After one phone call with her I was confident that she would be able to work with me to achieve my goal and break the stagnancy of my ineffective study habits. She did not try to sell me anything, upcharge me, or tell me I needed to take her course to pass the bar exam. To the contrary, Michele encouraged me that I had what it took to pass on my own and offered me some general tips on how to refine my approach if I were to try that again solo. While I was appreciative of her optimism and felt the determination to prove her (and myself) right that I could do it, I felt very strongly that the added structure, guidance, and support that Michele and the TOBEC program offered would give me the best chance of success.
The course was not cheap. I’ll be up front about that fact. However, neither was taking and failing so many bar exams prior to the course. Nor was the 4 years I spent making far less than I would as an attorney (even a public defender) as I flailed around trying to pass the exam using methods that just didn’t work well for me. The time, guidance, discipline, and care that Michele offers through her course, small group classes, and one-on-one sessions were invaluable to me.
The course was not easy either. You have to put in time and effort day after day to succeed in this program. That is because time and effort is what it takes to gain the knowledge and practice the skills required to pass this test. We met three times a week with Michele and the small group, a fourth meeting with just the small group, and a fifth meeting with Michele one-on-one each week. Each week we analyzed multiple choice questions, practiced writing essays, and worked through the practical component of the exam. At the individual meetings, Michele would listen and work with you to modify your schedule in a way that met you where you were at while also driving you forward. She was patient, kind, knowledgeable, and an excellent coach throughout the course.
Looking back on the past year, for it was about one year ago that I first met Michele, I cannot understate how much my life has changed for the better. In October, I was gearing up for my 10th bar exam with the usual fear but also with a newfound optimism and hope. Over the next few months as I participated in small group sessions, one on one meetings, and practiced, my fear shifted. Instead of being afraid and anxious, I was confident (and still a little anxious, but 9 failed bar exams will do that). I was confident that I had put in the work required to achieve my goal. The endless cycle of bar exams concluded this past April when I received my passing score of 291. But more than just coaching me to achieving a passing score, Michele enabled me to restore my self-confidence and once again feel proud of who I am and what I can accomplish. The bar exam is not a measure of self-worth, but when you spend over a decade of your life working toward a goal with only the bar exam to continually deny you that goal, it can feel like one. If you’re asking yourself if you’re good enough, I want you to know that you are. I encourage anyone reading this to take an hour of your time and talk to Michele if you think this course may help you, or even if you think an hour long conversation with a kind and insightful person would help. Take a course with Michele or don’t. That’s up to you. I can say wholeheartedly that I cannot recommend someone higher than I can Michele.
It is now officially a year since I first spoke with Michele feeling desperate and lost in my attempts to pass the bar, and I am working full time as an attorney in the public defender’s office where I had aimed to work since sitting for my first exam several years ago. I hope that everyone seeking to pass this exam can achieve their goal with or without this course, but for those of you who do choose to take it and truly put the work in, I look forward to reading your letter of thanks and endorsement someday as well.
Best,
Mike, (finally) esquire
”
“I passed the February Bar exam!
I graduated in December 2014 and took my first Georgia Bar exam in July 2015. I had been taking care of my father at home, who had cancer. He had just passed and I did not study at all. My MBE was 116, total score of 249.
I took the Georgia Bar exam again in July 2018. MBE score was again 116, total score of 236. Total # of Adaptibar questions completed was approximately 350.
I studied hard while working full time from September 2022 to February 2023 with TOBEC. I completed approximately 3,000 Adaptibar MBE’s. I was terrified of my writing, that I’d forget the law and have nothing to write about. I PASSED !!!!!!! MBE score of 136, total score of 284.
Thank you so much Michele! You have been there for me. Thank you for your care, support, kindness and believing in me when I didn’t. This has been an incredible journey.
”
“After failing the Bar exam twice, I was hesitant about taking it for a third time. I even registered to take it for a third time and did not sit. I was beginning to think that it just wasn’t meant to be. At the very least, I knew that I had to do something different if I hoped to get a passing score. I had used both BARBRI and KAPLAN with minimal improvements between two attempts.
By chance, while scrolling through LinkedIn, I saw a post between Michele and a good friend who had taken the bar multiple times. So, I reached out and scheduled a consultation with Michele. During the consultation we reviewed my past performance and where she thought I could make improvements. I can recall we were discussing the MBE and I said something to the effect of “when I narrow the answer choices down there are always two answer choices that could be right, you know what I mean.” She promptly replied “NO I don’t. There is only one right answer.” I must admit I was a little taken aback, but it was the truth that I needed. So, I signed up.
The study sessions were good, and my mates were a good group of people, who like me really needed to get past this point in our lives. The TOBEC method is truly solid, and Michele is a gifted instructor who understands the skills that must be internalized in order to pass the bar exam. If you take it seriously and learn the method, you will see the difference in your performance. I can’t say enough about TOBEC and the support from Michele all the way through the process and even during the test. I appreciate Michele and my Circle mates because I could not have done it on my own. I still can’t believe it’s over!!!”
“After graduating law school, I felt like I had all the tools needed to be successful on the bar exam. But 3 years and six attempts later, I was devastated and had lost all confidence in myself.
As I had done all the times before, I was scrolling through my LinkedIn feed - congratulating and trying my best to be sincerely happy for the latest round of bar passers - when one story spoke to me. I don’t even remember whose post it was, but their story was very similar to mine, that is until the part where they announced that they’d passed and credited their success to Michele @TakeOnBarExamCoaching.
Before I knew it, I was looking up more information on the program and how to sign up. I hadn’t yet decided to retake the bar, but something urged me to reach out anyway. I had no idea what to expect after my initial conversation with Michele, but that call was the reassurance and encouragement I needed to give the bar exam one more try. I had the support of family and friends each time before, and I had tried the top commercial bar prep courses, to no avail. My scores would always be in the same range, no matter what I did differently.
Michele’s approach to bar exam preparation is like no other, and for that reason it works! I recommend Take On Bar Exam Coaching to any repeat tester. If the pre-recorded lectures and rigid study schedule aren’t working for you, sign up for coaching with Michele. You’ve probably already learned what you need to know for the bar exam and Michele will help you demonstrate and articulate that knowledge . ”
“The first time I sat for the NY Bar Exam, I opted to use Barbri as this was the most popular course I had heard about during law school. I completed 75% of the program and truly believed that my efforts were sufficient to meet the “minimum competency” requirement. Unfortunately, I did not pass on the first try as I had hoped, and I was truly devastated.
I decided to try again and began studying for the February 2022 exam. This time, I focused heavily on memorizing the rules by constantly rewriting them. Although I felt like I developed a better grasp of the rules, I couldn’t recall them when I needed them most during the exam due to crippling test anxiety. When I didn’t pass the exam again, I began to question whether I would ever overcome this hurdle.
I stumbled upon Take On Bar Exam Coaching by chance on LinkedIn and from our first conversation, I found Michele’s presence to be comforting and helpful. At the outset, she reviewed my score reports and developed a personalized study plan which maximized my strengths and minimized the areas where I struggled on the exam.
I was very impressed by the test taking strategies I learned during my first Circle session and Michele’s step-by-step approach to applying those methods to MEE and MBE questions. I also enjoyed the supplemental study materials she provided because they were comprehensive but not overwhelming which was helpful when studying and reviewing the rules I learned in our study sessions. Additionally, I really appreciated Michele’s feedback on each MEE and MPT I submitted for her weekly review because it truly transformed my legal writing and analysis.
Every time I expressed that I felt overwhelmed, anxious, stressed, and uncertain about bar prep and the actual exam, Michele always reassured me that I could pass the exam because I was well equipped and prepared with the tools and strategies I learned throughout the process.
And I’m proud to confirm that she was right—I passed the July 2022 NY Bar Exam and my score increased by 29 points!
The Take On Bar Exam Coaching program is intense, time-consuming, and an investment but well worth the results. I made a personal investment in my future by choosing to work with Michele. Not only did she teach me how to successfully write MEEs and MPTs and strategically approach MBE questions, but she also helped me restore my confidence in my abilities.
I can’t thank Michele enough for her unwavering support and commitment to helping me achieve my goal of passing the bar exam and becoming a practicing attorney. As a bar exam coach, she is very knowledgeable and diligent. She is also a personal cheerleader who will root for you every step of the way on your journey to passing the bar exam. I’m grateful for her and her methods and happy to recommend her services to future bar examiners. ”
“I can’t thank you enough for helping me pass the July Missouri Bar Exam with a score that is high enough to be licensed in all UBE jurisdictions. It had been over 20 years since I last sat for the exam. I tried several times to give it another shot and signed up for different classes. But, with a family and working full time, I could never get through the material and never felt prepared to take the test again. I only wish I had signed up for your program sooner. The schedule that you created for me and our 1 on 1 meetings helped to keep me on track. Your MBE classes organized and simplified the material. You also taught me to how to approach and write the MPTs and the essays. However, the most important piece of advice that you gave me was to never quit on a question and always write with confidence. I took this to heart and remembered it during the exam especially for the essays.”
“I finally passed the NY bar — a journey which I have almost given up! But Michele persisted and truly took the time to know my obstacles and capitalize on my strengths. She understands the challenges of a non-traditional bar exam taker. I am a first-generation immigrant with English as my second language and a mother who juggles full-time work with domestic chores. Michele was a beacon of light in my journey to overcome these struggles. She was painstakingly detailed and equally meticulous in correcting my MEE and MPT writing or improving my MBE score. More importantly, Michele never stopped believing in me when I have stopped believing in myself.”
“Before working with Michele I had taken and failed the bar four times. I tried traditional bar prep courses like Barbri and Themis, I tried making my own study plan, and I even tried an individual tutoring program. After my fourth attempt, I was hesitant to take the bar again. Being an attorney was my goal, but I didn’t feel like I could do it without help. A friend of mine recommended Michele after she had her own struggles with the bar exam, so I contacted her to speak more about the program.
From our initial phone call, I knew that Michele and her program would be the right fit for me. Michele’s tutoring method was completely unique from other bar prep programs. In addition to weekly one-on-one sessions, we met as a group with Michele three times a week, going over both MBE and essay tactics. These group sessions helped me not only to learn the material better but also to form relationships with my fellow classmates who supported me throughout the bar prep process.
I won’t sugarcoat it: Michele demands a lot as an instructor. Your weeks will be busy, and you won’t have an abundance of down time between when you start her course and the bar exam. However, if you put in the time she is asking of you, meet with her regularly, and work through all of her program you will be successful on the bar exam. With Michele’s help and guidance, I was able to pass the UBE, allowing me to be licensed in nineteen states across the United States. In addition to this, I was able to score a 146.6 on my MBE. This MBE score will allow me to transfer this high score into my home state.
Without Michele’s help, none of this would have been possible. I never lacked the desire to pass the bar or the drive to pass the bar, but I did lack the structure and knowledge that Michele brings to the table. Simply put: Michele knows what it takes to pass the bar and will make sure that you know it too. I could never thank her enough for helping me accomplish what I had been working toward for so long.”
“I graduated from Howard University School of Law in 2014. I was told that a bar license from VA would be the most “prestigious” because it was the most difficult bar to pass if you wanted to practice in the DMV region.
I failed twice.
Because I knew that I didn’t want to practice law, I put off taking it again. As I grew in my political career, I almost forgot that I hadn’t passed the bar.
Honestly, “I don’t NEED to pass the bar,” I told myself. But...it started nagging at me again, more recently.
I am a person that wants to complete what she starts, and while I didn’t need the bar license to be successful, I wanted to complete what I started.
The problem was/is, time is not my friend. I could not figure out how I would be able to fit a rigorous bar study schedule into my daily life. If I thought I didn’t have the time to take a bar class immediately after graduating from law school (I have always worked full-time), I definitely didn’t think I would have the time now.
Then I signed up for Michele’s class...
Yes, her class is tough (and expensive), but boy do I wish I took her class after I failed the first time.
While Barbri and the like are cheaper, they do not give you the personalized schedule, work plan, and advice that Michele does. And, by the time you take a bar class multiple times, it ends up being more expensive than just taking Michele’s class.
In July 2021, I passed the bar!
It would NOT have been possible without Michele.
Finally, I have completed what I started with my legal education and licensure!”
“Have you ever been caught unprepared in a blackout? You cannot see much in front of you, and you are desperately raiding drawers looking for a light… any light, even one as small as a matchstick to illuminate the darkness?
Well for me, trying to navigate my way through the NY Bar exam, Michele and her course, Take On Bar Exam Coaching (TOBEC) was that light, that essential matchstick.
Prior to working with Michele, I thought I could “easily pass”. I mean, what was the problem? I had, more or less walked through law school and the Solicitor’s Finals in the UK, and I had accumulated a good number of miles of practice on my clock… I was good… or so I thought!
The first time that I sat the NY Bar Exam, I approached it like any other exam that I had sat and passed. The problem is that the NY Bar Exam is NOT like any exam, and I was no longer that same student, all of which became quickly apparent whilst climbing the 2 day Mountain of MPTs, MEEs and MBEs, only to narrowly miss the golden number of 266.
After doing the same dance a couple of times, I knew that I needed help, the right kind of help.
I reached out to Michele and exhaled. I knew that to work with Michele I had to be ready to invest in my future and ready to ‘Take On The Bar’ and pass. Michele made me feel as though she was invested in me and my dreams.
She made it clear from the outset that if you let go of any preconceived ideas about the Bar and allow her to guide you, you will arrive at your destination. To aim, and she will help you will hit your target.
The Take On Bar Course was everything! TOBEC made it clear that not all vehicles are created equally. I was made to feel part of a family, as opposed to a wild dream chaser.
Michele’s methods are second to none. They require commitment, and like anything worth having, work, but first-class, and dare I say, a breath of fresh air from the dry methods used by its counterparts. Studying for the Bar can be enjoyable!
Michele employed strategies that prepared me more than I knew. Even when the voice of doubt had taken residence, and when I was juggling too much as a working mum, I was prepared.
TOBEC was more than that matchstick, it was a generator.
Investing in TOBEC was my first real step towards grabbing my future . The future that I deserved. Thank you Michele and thank you TOBEC!
”
“To All…..
It was a little over a year ago. I had hit a wall. I just received my email that informed me I failed the Bar exam again. I really didn’t think I was ever going to pass the Bar.
Like so many, I again went on the internet to search for a solution. I was in my car with tears in my eyes. I did a search and there it was. I didn’t know this yet, but it was to be a gift from God. I pulled
up the site, watched the free class, and booked an appointment.
Just the sound of Michele’s voice of comfort made me feel like I could conquer the bar exam.
She immediately identified my issues and knew how to assist me with the obstacles I was dealing with passing the bar. She explained everything about her process. She did everything she promised and went above and beyond her obligations in the agreement.
She held me to my promise to work hard and focus on the goal I wanted to achieve.
She also became a shoulder to lean on. You could call her any time and she would either pick up the phone or get back to you as soon as possible. When she would call you back, she made you feel like you were the only client she had.
You start to forget she is your tutor and begin to confide in her as a friend. This is what you need when you are taking the Bar exam. A person who is dedicated to make you feel like they have as much to lose as you do, if you fail.
This program was not cheap but worth every penny. I say this because she provides what others don’t. A promise to do everything necessary to help you pass (if you listen to her) and get you over the finish line.
Also, not only can you achieve your goal of learning the law and passing the Bar, but you meet one of the most incredible people in this world.
She is like a tutor, psychologist, resource of knowledge and an incredible friend, all in one.
She will teach you the law, help you clear your mind of everything but the goal, explain all things when you ask and always be there when you need her.
In conclusion, if your path crosses with Michele then you should believe there is a higher power creating that moment in your life.
The moment when you need to make a decision to have this person in your life.
”
“After many failed attempts at the bar in the past, I decided to seek a coach because other study programs like Bar Bri, PMBR just didn’t do it for me. Michele put together a customized study program and provides study techniques that will give you everything you need to pass and guess what, I did! All while working full time and being a full-time mother of two.”
“WOW – let me start by saying I PASSED the July 2021 Missouri Bar Exam after being unsuccessful on the bar exam 4 times prior.
As you can imagine, I felt defeated and like a failure (if I’m being honest); however, the thought of giving up on my lifelong dream of becoming an attorney was not an option. I knew that I had to eliminate my past study methods, practices, and bar prep courses because they had failed me 4 times prior, and I did not want the same results a 5th time.
Michele and TOBEC were just what I needed, especially since I graduated from law school in 2010.
Michele has such a caring and compassionate spirit. She truly believes in her students and their ability to be successful on the bar exam, even when we do not believe in ourselves. This was a stark difference from the commercial bar prep services I had taken in the past.
In addition, Michele helped me to change the way I viewed the bar exam. In the past, I viewed the bar exam as this frightening and intimidating “beast” that I would never pass. However, Michele helped me to realize with proper studying methods, techniques, and most importantly PREPARATION the bar exam was not to be feared but to be conquered – and I had the ability to conquer it!
The July 2021 Missouri Bar Exam was my first time taking the UBE. I was extremely nervous and unsure about it because I had never written essays on MBE subjects, but Michele assured me that I could do it and never stopped encouraging me.
Michele is a phenomenal bar coach, and I am forever grateful for her and her services.
The TOBEC curriculum is demanding. To be successful, I had to dedicate a lot of time and put in a lot of work to understand the tested areas of law, how to apply the law on MBE questions, and how to successfully write essays to gain the most points.
I can honestly say that I did not learn the tested areas of law in law school or in the other bar prep services that I had utilized, but TOBEC’s curriculum and memorization techniques allowed me to fully understand the law and how to apply it (my friends and family would probably say I applied it too much in daily conversations😊).
Trust Michele and the TOBEC method!
It is because of her and the TOBEC method that I successfully passed the bar exam, and my score is high enough to become licensed in all UBE jurisdictions!
I just cannot thank her enough!!!
”
“
After being unsuccessful on the bar a handful of times, I felt defeated. I was considering giving up my dream of becoming an attorney. I knew I had the ability and capability to be a great help to many clients in the future but my work ethic and my desire had not shown in my results.
A friend of mine, who also struggled with passing the bar exam, passed the North Carolina bar exam with Michele’s help. He had given me Michele’s contact information almost a year prior. I initially reached out to her, but at the time I could not afford her services and didn’t see a benefit because I still believed that I could do it on my own.
Fast forward to a couple more unsuccessful sittings and I contacted Michele again to see if she would be willing to help me and she was.
When I contacted her she told me she had one more spot because someone had unexpectedly dropped out due to pregnancy.
I took the spot immediately and paid her fee. That was the best decision I have ever made.
She is so knowledgeable about the bar exam in all aspects. She’s also very encouraging.
This process was filled with a lot of anxiety and tears for me. She was there throughout the process with me encouraging me to keep fighting for my dream. Her services not only cover substantive law but she also includes skills and confidence training.
Her methods work.
Trust Michele she knows what she’s doing. It is because of her and my continued effort and perseverance that I can proudly say that I passed by the DC bar exam!”
“When I signed up for TOBEC, I thought I was just getting a tutor. Little did I know that my tutor would also be my life coach, therapist, and friend.
Michele went above and beyond to make sure my next attempt at the Kansas Bar Exam would also be my last. Aside from introducing me to learning techniques not offered by commercial Bar prep courses, Michele helped me get rid of poor habits, especially on the MEE/MPT sections. She was so detail-oriented in her approach to teaching that I subconsciously became detail-oriented in my approach to learning.
Michele also helped me with stress-management. For as long as I can remember, test-taking anxiety has been a great personal challenge of mine, and having already failed the Bar Exam once did not make matters any easier. During our four months together, Michele made sure I was treating myself well and helped me approach the Bar Exam with a positive mindset. She taught me various tips and tricks on handling stress that I will now be able to use for the rest of my life.
Through TOBEC, I increased my score by 27 points and even met the passing score requirement for all 40 UBE jurisdictions!”
“I could wax on for paragraphs (within the MPT allotted ninety minutes now!) about how the intricate and precise methods applied in Michele’s class make you understand why the rules you’re being forced to memorize are even being asked. I could go on and on about how thoughtful, understanding, flexible, and empathetic Michele is as a human being and moreover, a motivational coach. I could even go into detail about how supportive, necessary, and impactful it is sharing the TOBEC journey with others who have similar experiences to your own. But, I’m certain that if you’re reading this testimonial—you care about results—and the bottom-line is Michele is determined to get you over the finish line, even in your darkest moments of self-doubt, and she will stop at nothing to get you there.
Personally, I struggled with keeping my writing within the time-limit and maximizing the points earned from each sentence and even suffered even more difficulty maneuvering through multiple-choice questions that are really designed to trick you. Michele saw those weaknesses and pierced through them, applying easy to grasp concepts and special tips to help me unlock the Examiner’s secrets. We hit both of those issues with tactics, weekly, and the way that helped on test day is immeasurable.
Through Michele’s guidance, I boosted my writing score (exponentially, in fact!) and crossed the threshold (comfortably!) for passage on the multiple-choice section. I cannot shout any louder how much I highly recommend this course and heeding her instruction up to the second you sit to take the Bar.”
“I passed the bar exam!!! There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that I could not have done this without Michele’s help. I reached out to Michele after several unsuccessful attempts at the Florida Bar Exam and she provided me with the tools that I needed to succeed. I was a bit reluctant at times to her (tried and true) methodology but figured I needed to take heed to her instructions if I wanted to obtain different results. Michele was tough, straight-forward, and direct, all while showing a tremendous amount of love and concern for my overall wellbeing...the combination I needed to “Take On” the bar exam. This has been a tough journey as I’ve been dealing with life-threatening health issues simultaneously, but I’m glad to say that I gained not just an outstanding coach but a remarkable friend who looks beyond your bar exam success. The tools that Michele equipped me with to conquer what seemed like an indestructible giant, the bar exam, are the same tools that I will continue to utilize as I face life’s challenges. If you’re willing to work hard and follow a strict yet individually-targeted, self-paced curriculum, I strongly recommend Michele’s superb coaching program! ”
“When I decided to sit for the July 2020 bar exam, I thought about the three times I had taken it and failed; my confidence was shot. I was terrified of the idea of failing it again. Enter Michele. First, Michele’s kind and empathetic spirit were a welcome and refreshing difference from the other bar prep services I had utilized in the past. She was immediately disarming about a subject that was very sore for me.
I am so incredibly thankful for Michele’s unwavering faith in me. When I didn’t think that I could do it, she always believed that I could, and made sure I knew it. Eventually through her coaching, encouragement AND closely following the plan she laid out, I found myself believing I could do it too! The curriculum is rigorous, and the work required is tough, but it is absolutely effective. Michele’s memorization techniques took me from being 10 years removed from bar prep and rusty, to mastering the material from each area of law. I believe that if I had gone with another bar prep program I would be sitting here today wondering where I went wrong AGAIN, and if the practice of law is worth the never ending torture of trying to pass the bar exam. Instead, I am still celebrating PASSING THE MISSOURI BAR EXAM!! This feeling is tremendous. And I owe all of that to Michele and TOBEC.”
“I will start by saying Michele is a phenomenal person. I start with that statement of truth because it is the basis of her compassion and her understanding of human nature that allows her to meet her students where they are and usher them into the profession as licensed attorneys. She has the innate ability get you to accept yourself for who you are and where you are on this journey and to then help to catapult you into success.
I’d taken the bar exam 5 times in a state different from the one I currently practice in before I found Michele. I was tired. Though I knew I had what it took to practice law, the bar exam was keeping me from it. Her assessment of my abilities were spot on and as soon as I stopped thinking and started really working the plan she’d crafted just for me is when I had a breakthrough and passed the bar exam. It’s really that simple.
Traditional one size fits all bar study programs did not work for me. It wasn’t until I made the call and had the initial consult with Michele that knew Take On Bar Exam was the right fit for me.
While studying for the bar, I was working a full time job as well as two part time consulting gigs with attorneys who were doing what I so desperately wanted to do in life. Michele helped me get there.
The time is going to pass anyway, why not make it count!
”
“Michele is an exceptional coach, mentor, cheerleader, and friend. If you are undecided on whether to hire Michele or not, I have two words to you - “do it.” Your money will pay off when you see the results. I will go a little further to say that you are losing money by not hiring Michele and not having your bar license. Of course, she does not do magic. If you put in all the work, you will pass the bar! The hardest part of her coaching is memorization. Once you have memorized everything, she will work on your weaknesses to make you a stronger test-taker.
My weakness was the writing portion of the exam because English is my second language. As such, I had to overcome strenuous standardize testing conditions. The bar exam is pretty challenging for a native speaker, imagine as a foreign. Michele’s coaching, however, made me more confident. I increased the writing portion of the test by at least “24 points.”
Also, on the actual day of the bar, when I needed her the most, she was there when I called her. She was also my cheerleader! Just to be able to talk to a friend who understood the emotional and mental roller-coaster I was going through was huge. She will be more than a coach and mentor; she will be your friend.
As soon as the bar results came out, the first person I called was Michele. I could not have done it without her. Thank you, Michele!”
“Confidence - a simple feeling, but it makes an enormous difference when studying and taking the bar exam. Michele helped me gain the confidence I needed to pass the bar. After being unsuccessful with the bar exam using the conventional bar pre courses, I was about to give up. Then, I found Michele’s coaching program. It’s worth every penny, and I would highly recommend it to everyone - first takers and re-takers. Studying and taking the bar exam are intimidating phases, as well as an emotional and mental rollercoaster. During her coaching, Michele made the bar exam less intimidating and went above and beyond to ensure that I had all the tools and techniques to pass the bar. For example, her MEE and MPT structure and feedback taught me what bar examiners expect and how to write a 6 score answer. I am forever grateful for her coaching because I would not have passed the bar without her coaching. If you are committed to working hard to pass the bar exam, I would strongly recommend Michele’s coaching program. ”
“If I (a single mother of 4 children) can do it, you most definitely can too! After taking the bar 5 times and failing each time, I decided to study different and started researching for a bar coach. I came across Michele and did a 1:1 session with her. She asked me questions to learn about me and I was also able to ask questions to learn about what she had to offer and to see if we were a match. After our call and thinking about it, I decided to go with her program, and it is most definitely the wisest decision I’ve ever made! Halfway through my bar study I learned that I was expecting my fourth baby, and to my surprise I also learned that my baby’s father did not want anything to do with my baby or me. A month later I had problems with my apartment and had to move, and my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer....all while I was studying for the bar, was pregnant, and I was working two jobs to support my three children from my first marriage. As soon as the bar results came out, the first person I called was Michele, I could not have done this without her! She is very knowledgeable, extremely supportive, and if you follow her program you will pass! Michele, you are an angel and I would not be an attorney today if it wasn’t for your excellent program and amazing coaching skills! XOXO ”
“After failing the bar exam twice, I had serious doubts about whether my brain could comprehend taking it a third time. One week into working with Michele and my mindset was transformed. She provides guidance, positivity and the right tools you’ll need to pass. I was able to approach every test section with an attack plan, even MPTs (my worst nightmare). Writing became easy and fun. The tips and tricks she’ll give you along the way are lifesavers. Come ready to work hard and you’ll see the results. I know I could not have passed without her in my corner.
”
“I passed the Virginia bar exam! As a repeat test taker, the commercial bar prep did not work for me. I need individualized feedback. You helped me hone my ability to spot issues and apply the most relevant rule. You helped me identify my weaknesses and turn them into strengths. I never thought that I would be able to memorize so many rules for the MBE and for the essays, but I did. Thank you for teaching me a process to reach my goal. You are a great coach and a wise counselor.
Here’s to the future!
”
“I passed the Virginia Bar Exam! I couldn’t have done it without you!
After failing the Virginia bar exam twice, I had a lot of doubts about my prospects for success on the Virginia bar exam. I did my research and read all about the Take on the Bar Exam course bar prep course, and I decided to give the Take on Bar Exam Coching course a chance after attending one of the courses overview sessions online. I am so glad that I decided to give TOBEC a chance, it is by far one of the best decisions I have every made regarding bar preparation. Michele is extremely patient and she altered the course to fit my individual needs. The best part about the course is that Michele gives you real feedback on a daily basis (as opposed to some of the commercial bar prep courses i.e., Barbri) and uses real bar exam material to help get you prepared for the test. When I took the bar exam in July, I knew exactly what topics were going to be tested and what issues to look for in the fact patterns on the written exam. I absolutely adore Michele, and admire all the dedication and hard work she puts in to make sure all of her students pass the bar exam. Thanks to Michele, I passed the Virginia bar exam!
”
“Michele taught me how to study for the bar exam. Her comprehensive TOBEC method helped me work smarter and inspired me to work harder. She provided top notch support to me throughout the bar exam experience. I recommend her services to anyone who is committed to passing the exam. ”
“Take on Bar Exam Coaching is excellent. Michele is very professional and has learned the art of being both professional, fun and relatable. She cares about her students and it shows in the encouragement and support that she provides. Take on Bar Exam’s method cuts out the extra stress that comes with struggling to finish loads of traditional bar course assignments that do not use real MBE questions. Rather the method is focused and calculated, providing the mental security you need to feel confident in preparing for the bar.
Take on Bar Exam provides a firm essay writing structure that can be learned and applied, ensuring you have the tools to write whatever essay is thrown your way. I received in-depth instruction on how to improve my essay writing.I would recommend Take on Bar Exam to anyone who is questioning whether a traditional bar prep course is for them, anyone who wants calculated structure in bar prep and anyone who is retaking the bar exam. ”
“Michele is exceptional as a mentor and coach. She has a very unique approach to preparing for the bar. She approaches each student individually from the beginning of her program, by interviewing each student she makes an assessment of their specific needs. She then formulates a plan that is useful and highly successful for the bar, especially MPT and essay writing instruction. This has always been a difficult area for me and I wish she had been my legal writing professor in law school. She made it all seem so simple, by following the rule through my writing.
Her years of teaching as a professor filled in the gaps I had from Law School, focusing on writing effectively and efficiently for the bar exam. She reviews all your work carefully, critically and discusses how to improve to maximize your points. She personally improved my writing ability on the February Bar Exam, where I felt confident and comfortable going into the exam.
Through her efforts the Essays and MPT’s were easy, formatting and organizational structure were simple. I was able to produce a well written Essay, MPT and able to complete them in time with review of my work.
Her approach to learning the rules of law and application to fact patterns are far better than commercial courses. Her approach is in a step by step with short reviews, that make remembering the rules easier.
Her weekly teaching sessions are interactive, taking you from the basic understanding of writing concepts to becoming an effective writer for the bar. She walks you through each step with reinforcement and encouragement. She is never in a rush to end the session or spend time going over difficult areas with you.
Her MBE teaching method is excellent, learn by doing rather than long outlines that are nonspecific for the bar questions. She uses recent, actual NCBE questions, keeping you on a schedule daily so there is ample time to review and be prepared going into the bar.
I was unsuccessful in taking the bar with using commercial courses, including BariBri and Kaplan. Michele’s teaching method, commitment to my success made all the difference in the world.
Michele has developed a wonderful bar review course that focuses on your success. I wish I had taken her the first time around. She is truly an excellent professor, caring, competent, personable and most all wants you to achieve your dream of becoming a lawyer.
Overall, she is extraordinary and you will achieve your goal of passing the bar by having her guide you down the path of success.”
“Michele has a way of connecting to each student “where they are”. She will exam their experience, their current work load (student/ full-time employee) and assess how much the student needs to succeed. That is important. Each experience is different and based on their exposure to the exam, last time in a study environment, their current success is based on how much Michele knows. Michele is also compassionate, while firm. She is patient enough to understand that emotionally there may be days that you are broken – literally and need a moment. She is also firm enough to tell you that you have “x” amount of time to get past this point because you have “a task at hand that is rather pressing; let’s get to it”.
Michele knew that exposure to real questions was instrumental and diligently worked to get the questions to each student for consistent review. While the program is specific, Michele is able to take your individual needs and create a custom study program for you. What I enjoyed was the ability to connect with her weekly on a one-on-one basis. This connection was so important. And, the combined group sessions helped develop my skills through the process leading up to taking the bar.
Michele’s technique in teaching the material in an “A-B-C” format was key in (a) understanding HOW to review (the question); and (b) to then answer the questions. The group studies were NOT my favorite. It is hard to work in an environment where you have to “see” other people you don’t know. However, one part of group study that I appreciated was: being able to talk through a question with someone else and see their point of view. I am not fond of video conferencing but the interactive studying with other people was very helpful. In fact, two of us from the group worked together through specific MBE questions and MPT scenarios. This comradeship really helped support each other through the grueling BAR. The bond helped you feel as if you were not facing an issue alone.
I would recommend this program for those that have gotten rid of their egos of failure/success and are really ready to work. It is a different approach than BARBRI and KAPLAN. However, this change of pace is needed to take an introspective look at how and why success can be attained through different means. ”
“Having undertaken a reputable bar review course, and subsequently missing the NY Bar by 20 points (frustrating!), I enrolled upon Michele’s ‘Take on Bar Exam Coaching’ program, and experienced nothing short of being led from the darkness into the light!
Prior to Take on Bar, my approach was that of many foreigners, in that I absorbed as much of the black-letter law as possible, practiced past exam papers, and then tried to tackle the Bar. In the end, I was left with the results of a baker who attempted to bake without the one essential ingredient necessary to bind all of the others together. For me, that essential ingredient was Michele’s bar exam coaching services.
Rather than bombard you with volumes of textbooks and materials (which you will not use in their entirety), Michele meets you where you are. By identifying your strengths and weaknesses from the outset (on a subject-by-subject basis), she is able to tailor a personalized study plan and one-on-one sessions to tackle the latter whilst continually building confidence in the former.
The video conferences are worth their weight in gold, and you are literally given opportunity to dissect MPTs and MEE as part of a group. As you are coached through how to ‘write’ on the MEE and MPT, and how to read/answer MBE questions, you will be excused from having several of Oprah’s “Ah-ha moments’ as the realization of how simple the necessary approach is, sinks in.
As someone who has spent a pretty penny on the well known bar exam course that I referred to above, I am telling you that the cost of Michele’s bar exam coaching services is in my opinion, money well spent! (In fact, I feel like I have actually short-changed Michele and with hindsight, would have paid more… but do not tell Michele that!)”
“I began working with Michele immediately upon being notified that I did
not pass the February 2017 Bar exam. We connected through the Academic Director at [my law school]. She helped me to become a stronger legal writer by giving me weekly MPT assignments. I struggled with legal writing and analysis during law school. However, completing these weekly assignments for her helped boost my confidence levels and gave me the motivation to keep going despite all of my challenges in studying for an exam of this magnitude.”
“In case you haven’t heard the amazing news yet, allow me to tell you that I have passed the California Bar Exam!!”
“I entered this Bar preparation race having not studied for approximately 10 years and hailing from a foreign country. To say that I was frightened, and did not have a clue as to where to start would be an understatement! Then, I was introduced to Take On Bar Exam’s Coaching services, and I was able to armor up and really prepare for the battle ahead. ”
“My initial consult with Michele helped to build up my confidence, and put me at ease, so that I would start off the process with a positive ‘can do’ attitude. ”
“I just found out that I passed the bar exam! I obviously could not have done that on my own and would like to thank you for having had such a positive effect on my experience in many ways. I would not be where I am today without you and am so grateful for the knowledge and guidance that I received from [you].”
“Studying for the bar, no matter how many times you have done it is a very stressful experience. Michele found a way to hand hold and provide tough love when needed. ”
“I was given a weekly schedule which ensured that I covered and reviewed each subject through MPTs, MEEs and MBEs. ”
“Although, we were not able to meet in person since we live in different states, she made herself readily available to me through conferences, phone calls and emails. For example, Michele made herself available to discuss my assignments while she was on vacation in another country. I don’t know too many people who would be available for their students while they are on vacation. Also, we had weekly conferences to go over the previous week’s assignments and to talk about what I needed to work on.”
“Michele tailored her tutoring services to an almost bespoke service for my needs, with frequent telephone and email communications, set assignments and helpful feedback, all of which helped to strengthen my weaknesses, and realize that the Bar exam was not simply a test of legal knowledge, but that approach was just as salient.”
“She connected with me “where I was”. She did this by asking me about my current schedule: work related and bar study time. Once she found out my limitations, she provided me a realistic time table for specific subject matter and hours to devote studying. ”
“I passed the bar exam this time around! In the end, I felt much better about the February exam than I did when I took it last July. I resigned at the firm where I was working a little over a week ago. I was working 14 hr days and watching my boss reap all of the reward ($$). I felt like I was going crazy. My family is much too important to me for me to waste away like that. So, I decided that a lot of our clients were there because of me and my [ability to speak] Spanish. I formed my LLC the night I resigned and I [am] off and running. Last week was my first week out on my own. I did pretty well for not even having an office at that point!”
“
Michele was very approachable, and her methodology made this near impossible task, manageable. ”
“Her support during bar prep has had a tremendous impact on my life—both personally and professionally. ”
“I am so grateful for all of the time that Michele put in for preparing me for the Bar. ”
“She went above and beyond, and I really felt as though we were on this journey together. Thank you Michele!”
“Today I found out that I passed the Georgia Bar on the first try and I owe you credit for that.
I had to stop and say thank you because you have made a difference in my legal career . . .”
“She doesn’t hold back when telling you that you need to step up the pace, work harder in a specific area of concentration, re-write an assignment or do something different while you prepare. ”
“She helped me to eliminate negative self-talk, which has been my downfall in the past. I truly believe that Michele cares about each student that she tutors and wants to see us succeed—not only on the bar exam but in life.”
“I have never been a great student by any means. In my 1L year I got shitty grades and thought about dropping out. I didn’t because I didn’t want to let my family down. Law school was a struggle and I always felt like I was barely scraping through my classes and even when I felt like I understood my classes, my grades were never great.
I took the bar exam in July 2015 and failed it spectacularly with MBEs as low as low could be. I took it again in February 2016 and failed. My dad found Michele and I signed up with her. She showed me how to do multiple choice questions and made the essays look easy. She helped me manage my time on the mpts and get a good answer. With the way she teaches the biggest thing that I had to do was memorize rules. Once I knew the rules, her study method made everything else easy. She has a way of telling you that she knows that you can pass and you start to wonder if she’s right. After I took the exam I felt really calm. The other times I took it I knew that I failed.
When I checked my scores, I saw I passed the bar exam and I cried like a big baby. This is the goal I never thought I could reach. I never thought I was smart enough to do it. Michele believed in me and showed me that dedication and finding that drive to continuously push yourself to be better will really keep you going. She helped me focus on my end goal. I can’t say enough good about her.
”
“Michele is an excellent coach. ”
“I know that if I wasn’t working with her during bar prep then I would not have made it through this grueling process.”
“I had struggled with passing the Georgia bar exam. The second time I took it, I was two weeks from my due date and terrified that I’d go into labor. Michele held my hand through it all. She pushed and guided me. I’m happy to report that on my third try, I finally passed the bar exam. I could not have passed without Michele in my corner keep me on task and coaching me.”
“I was so well prepared to analyze and write my exam answers. ”
“While teaching was done remotely, she still made herself very “present”. ”
“She’s very good at explaining things. ”
“You will work really hard . . . but you’ll end up learning a lot by the end. ”
“Knows her stuff. ”
“She prepares you well.”
“I feel prepared . . . because of . . . what she’s teaching. ”
“She makes you do more . . . but you know it’s for your own good. ”
“Consider yourself blessed if you’re in her class.
”
“If you are not ready to work hard then you will not like her class.
”