Testimonials
We provide California bar exam tutoring and preparation courses with great pride. We emphasize the importance of individualized attention for each student, assessing and addressing strengths and weaknesses assuring that each bar exam candidate feels confident come time to finally take the bar.
Over the years, we have met with great success, as have our students. See what they have said.
Jason,
You know, if it weren’t for your encouragement and faith in me, I would not have even reached where I am today. So I should thank you!
Brinda Mehta Gandhi
California Bar # 270010
Jason:
I remember you mentioning way back when we were studying for the Bar Exam together at Whittier that you wanted to start your own Bar Review course. Now you have. Who needs BAR/BRI? Just wanted to congratulate you on following through with your vision.
And you’re a professor. Even cooler. Congrats.
Richard A. Grossman
California Bar # 244251
J,
I just finished doing the MBE questions you wrote for Evidence. I tallied my percentage, & I got 40/51 questions right. That’s 78% – which I am very happy with at this point in time
And the best part is that I’m getting questions right for the right reasons, and I’m eliminating answers for the correct reason as well (for the vast majority). Woohoo to that!
My MBE scores have definitely been improving – I admit that I’m almost to the point where I enjoy doing them. Don’t worry, I said “almost.”
I have been really happy with your program, as I hope you can tell.
Thanks for everything you do. I’m so glad to be working with you! (And I’m still pretty damn excited about that essay grade
Lindsey Caine
California Bar # 269553
Hey JT,
Thanks for the motivation and being “hard” on me. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate and respect being told “what I need to know” versus “what I want to hear.” Especially after seeing that we’re now in a society that tells kids that they’re still “winners” when finishing last place and get a 4’ trophy to show for it. Perseverance and character are elusive qualities these days.
We’ve done HUGE things over the last 3 months (from 50’s to 70’s in MBE’s and from 50’s to 60-75’s on essays and PT’s-with the occasional mishap
Mark S.
California Bar # 269542
Jason
I just want to say a big THANK YOU for ALL your invaluable help and advice for preparing for the CBX.
ANYWAY, it’s all over….and I have no doubt I did my best bar exam….wrote the best PTs and essays I have written (a la “CA bar style”)….whether they were good enough to pass is not for me to judge, but I know I have either done sufficiently well to pass or will be able to do so in the future if this time was not good enough. The most important thing is that I have made progress and I believe the RIGHT kind of progress for the specific purpose of preparing for the CBX.
I honestly don’t know how you could keep up with 30 of us!!!!……and totally agree with you that we are getting more than what we bargained for e.g., as in getting feedback from multiple graders who all have good and useful tips to help us improve.
Thanks for the first essay experience and “instant feedback”…am I glad I have found you??!!!
Winston Ku
California Bar # (Living abroad)
Jason:
Thanks for your message. I’m already following your methodology about distractions: placing my computer and phone out of my view and hearing range while I study! Your materials are fantastic. You really have a FAR BETTER system than anything I’ve seen.
Wish I had known of you before. I adopted your method comfortably right away. In the meantime, I’m excited about the days ahead and kickin’ the S out of the CABX…
I appreciate everything you’ve done…and so pleased I finally made the right choice in choosing a bar exam professor.
THANKS Jason!
Jason: I was very afraid of looking at the internet results. My envelope arrived about 30 minutes ago. I PASSED THE BAR! I am overwhelmed with relief and happiness. THANK YOU so much for your expert tutoring and support to get me past this huge hurdle in my life.
There was a period in my life when I thought I’d never see my name published as passing the CBX. Glad I barreled through by following your superior method and excellent materials and strategy. I followed your advice and prepared as if I’d never take the CBX again.
All the best,
John E. Fasesky
California Bar # 276302
Hey Jason,
Just wanted to let you know I passed the PA bar. Don’t have scores yet – should come in the mail next week.
With the MBEs, the materials you sent me helped sooooooooo much. Your explanation and analysis of each question is amazing work.
NJ results in about 5 weeks.
Thanks again!
Ethan D. Baker
California Bar # 242176
Pennsylvania Attorney ID # 309943
Jason, how are you holding up? I’m sure the last few days kept you very busy. I remember the first time I called you last November, you were losing your voice from talking on the phone all day.
It hasn’t really sunk in yet…I got up this morning worried that yesterday was all a dream. I don’t think there are any words in the English language to fully give justice to the devotion, time, patience, and strategies, that you provided, but I will definitely leave you my feedback anyway. Thank you for believing in me because building confidence is half of the battle. I wish I could turn the clock back to the first time I was preparing for the exam so I could have worked with you sooner. But now that my ordeal is over FOREVER, I’ll make sure that future examinees will not make the same mistake I did by not going straight to you.
I worked with some God-awful instructors before I met you and being skeptical was a knee-jerk reaction…that I did get over very early in your course.
My family and I truly thank you from the bottom of our hearts for helping make this possible for me. I want you to know that I truly appreciate your course, you have helped me achieve the greatest obstacle in my life, to date, and I can’t imagine expecting anything else from you. I think it was one of the best investments I’ve ever made.
Nora K. Verceles
California Bar # 276785
Hey Jason,
*1st essay: defamation
- I think I handled it well. They tried to put all the elements in a different order, but I handled each one like how we had that previous defamation essay and mentioned all the elements and the facts to support so that was chill.*2nd essay: contracts
- I think i got all the major points of the express condition. But organization and elements and facts were all good.**3rd essay: corps
- was pretty easy.Performance Test:
- Felt really good.Overall 3rd day was even better than the first day, so I think that I feel confident for May, don’t want to jinx it.
Anyways, thanks for all your help and motivation. Was definitely worth it. Will talk to you soon and will let you know the results. I believe there’s a way to check your MBE scores even if you pass right? I would definitely like to know.
Thanks,
Akshay S. Chakravarthy
California Bar # 276795
Hi Jason,
How are you? Hope life has been treating you well. I was feeling a little anxious about bar results today and thought of you. I hope to make you proud come May 15th. Whatever the outcome, please know, I have learned a lot from you and appreciate all your efforts in seeing me succeed. Thank you.
Tina Dao
California Bar # 270101
Hey Jason.
Long time. I had to write you and let you know that I sat for the Vermont Bar Exam and just found out today that I passed. And even though it was not California, I know that some of the skill you worked with me on resulted in my success.
My MBE was 154 for VT.
Hope all is well with you JT.
Douglas E. DiSabito
Vermont Attorney License # 4815
Hi Jason.
If I pass I know it was because of you…. I’m just nervous on the results to come. I know for me I need a good MBE score, and I felt very good taking that part of the exam, actually I felt excellent especially with giant fact patterns…I just hope it’s a score like I was scoring with you before. I did feel more in control of the exam and being confident seeing the issues clearer than before and having a different writing style.
ThanksMike J. Munoz
California Bar # 266692
Thanks Jason. I will follow your instructions as close as possible. Like others, I am a total panic, but I do seem to have a feel of confidence that I know what to expect, and I am better prepared than ever before. I hope it is not false confidence…..
Your help is greatly appreciated….
Marcus A. Bohn
California Bar # 273635
Hi Jason,
I was wondering if you would like to teach another course. It is “Trusts” on Sundays from 2:30-5:30pm. I’m not sure if this is your subject area, but since we have had so many great reviews from students regarding your teaching methods, I thought I’d ask.
Thanks,
Amber Ng
Director of Academic Affairs
Irvine University
Jason I had to leave before I could say thank you. I appreciate your help and the time you put into helping me. I am a little nervous but I know without question I am ready to take and pass the test. I owe a lot of that to you and I wanted to say thank you!
Also, I like that on just about the last issue on the last essay you gave there is an 8th Amendment issue. I consider that to be the classic Jason, keeping us on our toes that was the last thing I expected to see, nice!
Marc Goldman
California Bar # (Coming soon)
Below is my review and it is an honest review.
I spent thousands of dollars on Bar Review courses and tutors. None really helped. Until I found Jason. In November, I was trying to figure out what I needed to do to pass this freaking exam. Then I found “One-timers.” At midnight, still depressed, I sent an email to find out about the bar review course Jason offered. Within 30 seconds, he responded. Jason was up preparing MBE’s for his class. At that time, I felt that I found the right type of tutor. One who is dedicated to his students, responsive and will work with them until they pass without a one time charge.
I worked with several tutors, solos and from bar review organizations. However, Jason stands out well above them all for many reasons. For example, his system of analyzing each sentence of the MBE and Essay questions. When you review his material, it makes you stop and think what is happening in the facts. He even researches and identifies the case law that was used to make up that question. Wow. Also, he is absolutely dedicated to you passing the exam. He is available all the time, including being at the test site for encouragement.
Most importantly, to me, Jason was the perfect trainer/coach that I needed for bar preparation. Jason did not baby me. He made me own up to my procrastination. Other tutors did not care. If I did not turn in an assignment, they were perfectly okay with that. Probably because they wanted my money and that’s all. However, Jason took my passing the bar personally. So, he yelled at me and made me feel very very very bad when I was not prepared or did not turn in my assignment. Some people may find that a bit harsh, but that is what is needed to pass this exam the first time. Without his dedication, I would not have worked hard to pass the exam. This exam is doable the first time, but only with someone like Jason on your back, for support, as well as, for pushing you to get off your butt.
I am so thankful that I sent that e-mail at midnight. He prides himself for working for his students and being available. He even guarantees it. I could go on and on, but the above a tip of ice berg of what Jason provides. His material, dedication, responsiveness and his knowledge of the material. I highly recommend him.
Milan Patel
California Bar # 277473
J,
I truly appreciate all that you are doing. I can’t thank you enough for helping me out. I shudder to think where I would be without your program.
By the way, the essay audios are great. It’s like you’re in the room. They are thorough and insightful. Thank you for going the extra mile.
JT’s Method works!!!
Is that copyrighted yet?
Luis E. Gonzalez
California Bar # 275961
I use your critical thinking method in my MBE’s and I usually know the answer before I get to the choices. haha.
I like your suggestions regarding the “focus” areas. I need more specific suggestions like this from you (not generalities – we all already know about the generalities). It’s funny because this morning I didn’t know where to start until I read your email and that was resolved. Since my anxiety takes a hold of me sometimes, your suggestions reboot my system and calm me down. Do it more often! Thanks.
Edward R. (Hadi)
California Bar # (Processing Application)
Jason:
I just wanted to say thanks for your help. Thanks for the tips, advice and help through this journey. I did not find out until Saturday, 5/14 because I did not want to check and you know my story. Words cannot describe what it feels like to pass and see your name on the passing list. Thanks for encouraging my wife with your last e-mail. Thanks.
Oh my!! WOW!!
Hi Jason! I know can u believe it!!we are so happy!! Thank u for convincing me to let him take the bar. After hearing that you recommended he keep taking it, I stepped back and let him decide. Of course he wanted to keep going. Thank you for your help and for talking with me. You helped get Carlos to the next level, and you were such a necessary part of this crazy journey. He improved so much after working with you. I am so happy it’s over. God bless you.
Sincerely,
Nicole (Carlos’s wife)
Carlos Funes
California Bar # 276794
Hi Jason,
I was just checking out your web site at One-Timers and couldn’t find a testimonial from me on there. Anyway, I would like to leave a testimonial for the fine work you did on my behalf, so please let me know how I can accomplish this. Thanks again, and thanks for the letter, the magazine and all the little extras you’ve been kind enough to send my way, they are much appreciated!
I’m sure you’re exceptionally busy this time of year, but drop me a reply when you can.
Doug E. Belyeu
California Bar # 275446
I have this overwhelming feeling of gratitude, I think I might be getting better finally!
The common sense explanation makes a difference, and, more importantly, makes it stick. Your answers address the exact issues I have w MBEs. Brilliant
MBE is so fun. Never thought the exam I hated so much will be my hobby
Oh and I do like my daily dose of awesomeness that you are. Having someone available and encouraging every step of the way is probably more helpful than anything else.
I think I had an epiphany, an essay is just like a PT, except in essay you have to create your own law skeleton and match it up with the facts!! Wow… I think I’m onto something.
Ilona Wheat
California Bar # 276691
Do you remember how hesitant I was to take the July 09 exam? I was in the middle of a crazy moving process, had just been burglarized of $7K worth of personal property, and fallen victim to the flu?
The reason why I chose you out of all the tutors I was researching was because you told me “You’d have to be a fool not to take it.” That’s what I needed to hear when all the other tutors were saying it was a decision I would have to make. I needed a tutor that was going to guide me and from there I think I knew that your program was the one.
And when I was feeling down about the lack of time that I had to dedicate at the beginning, you told me that it would be an inspirational story for when I pass. You believed in me. So I did my best to do all that I could. I didn’t do it all, but like you said it was QUALITY over QUANTITY. Doing 1000′s of MBE’s and dozens upon dozens of essays got me no where my first try. But doing the most that I could mentally and physically do in the short amount of time YOUR WAY is what got me through.
And one thing that happened to me that I didn’t want to disclose at the time was that I was in a car accident within 3 weeks of the exam. So when you look at all the adversity I had to deal with in addition to having a full time job while I was studying for this exam, it was a dream come true, and I was in tears in the middle of the Bellagio casino after you broke the news to me.
You’re awesome Jason. Thank you!
WE DID IT!
Jeffrey V. Jimenez
California Bar # 264918
What you taught me went beyond passing the bar. For example what u said about the first day and how one has to get back up or else… I apply that to everything now and when you told me to be firm yet fair. Anyway I continue to take your advise in my career.
You have no idea how much those words of encouragement are needed and appreciated!!
(After the bar) OMG. If only u could see the huge smile on my face when I read your message!!! I’m loving life!! Out 160 applicants I was 1 of 4 to get the job. I’ve had 5 trial calls but they settled the day of. I was just thinking of u yesterday!!
Marysol Bretado
California Bar # 263842
I feel a lot better about this process after having meet with you last night
Please stay on me now till February even if I pout and complain. Thanks for everything J.
I’m still so excited I can’t believe it J I text Marisol last night it was so perfect we sat together and both past you’re the bomb J
Connie Stringfellow
California Bar # 263869
Hi Jason.
I just want to thank you for your hard work, support, enthusiasm and desire to see me pass. I really appreciate it.
Today I am practicing an attitude of gratitude
Thanks Jason. I appreciate all you are doing to help me.
Kelly Rose Mason
California Bar # 263106
For someone that learns like I do, Jason Tolerico was a great tutor. The thing with Jason is that while he has a little bit of a different study approach, his approach is the perfect way for passing the bar exam. He focuses not so much only on just the material, but also on how to reason through the questions if you don’t know the substantive answer, for both essays and the MBE. He shows you how to take the content they give you, and even if you know nothing, how to still get a passing answer. He also shows you exactly how to structure your essays, and how to make it easy for the grader to see the points you are making so that they don’t have to sift through a lot of verbiage. In reality, the graders read so many essays, that they really want to be able to glance at your essay and know that you are on the right track, and Jason teaches you exactly to format your answers so that it is evident to the graders that you have knowledge regarding this subject. For me I didn’t have a problem learning/memorizing the material, but it was through Jason’s assistance that I began to understand it conceptually which in turn helped me approach most any essay just using the facts they present, even if it was a subject I was weaker in.
The materials he gives you really covers every aspect of every subject, so if you are diligent and you go through all his material, you will have covered everything in the end. I know that doesn’t seem possible, but that is why he is as good as he is. He has put in a lot of time behind the scenes developing materials that are really substantive and really diverse so that you are not repeating the same subject, but are progressing through all the material. Bar-Bri works for some people but really the one on one attention you get with Jason sets him apart from Bar-Bri as well as most other programs.
I met with Jason a couple times during his program, but probably spoke to him almost every day even though he himself was studying for the Colorado bar at the time. He makes himself available to his students at any time of the day. In fact we even spoke in depth during the three days of the bar, while he was taking it as well.
He also gives you very detailed explanations for all the essays and MBE’s which is nice because it helps you to learn and they are much more in depth than Bar-Bri; he doesn’t just state the law but shows you how to know that a particular answer is wrong even if you don’t fully know the law or if two answers seem like they are both on point. He also gives you a lot of practice tests throughout which is great because it helps you assess where you are and he will structure your material so you strengthen your weaker subjects.
I hope this helps, maybe I wrote more than you needed but bottom line is Jason sets himself apart from other programs because he is not about teaching you just specific black letter law but rather also helping you get an understanding of the law in each subject so you can be prepared for whatever they throw at you and he is always available to assist.
If you have more questions please feel free to email me and good luck in February.
Rajat Bhasin
California Bar # 263385
Jason,
Your value is how your students feel about your system and your effort. I only get one vote on that, but you worked as hard if not harder than i did.
As an aside, i got your voicemail and had to laugh. you are absolutely correct on passing the bar first, however the humorous part for me was that it was the 3rd time this week that i received a contingent job offer! You know, I’m as relaxed as possible and i have no idea how it will come out, but i did everything i could do and i am at peace with that.
You enjoy the So Cal life today and i will enjoy Nor Cal coffee shop
I’m almost positive, that I wrote selected answer #2 for the 1st essay question of the bar exam – the Strict Liability question. I’m actually disappointed they selected 2 answers for this question, because my appears to be the superior answer.
Maybe if Conan ever gets a show again, I can be interviewed on it to explain how you helped me write the perfect answer.
hope all is matriculating well for you and your students.
yes I was sworn in. thanks for all your help. you were committed all the way through. Not to sound cliché, but that (commitment) is not a CA characteristic. you must have had east coast or Midwestern family values.
U are doing a hell of a job. Thanks for the help!
best regards,
Brent Kaspar
California Bar # 269435
I believe the interaction with Jason was the most helpful. The interactions helped to key in on insight that is valuable in passing the bar exam.
Jason was always accessible. When he was not accessible, voicemails were returned promptly.
I would recommend the course since the course is unique from other courses that I have used. Jason emphasized the right mix of material and strategy to achieve a passing score.
I felt prepared for the bar exam by constantly going over MBE questions and previous essays. Jason helped to prepare with the material as well as mentally prepare for the exam.
The course does not have to be improved much more since it is far superior to any of the other courses that I had previously viewed before.
This course had more one-on-one communications with Jason and he encouraged it. The other courses did not compare to the level of one-on-one communications as this course did.
There was always feedback on all the work that was performed, either positive or re-enforcement on materials to cover again in order to understand where the performance was lacking.
Communication was often daily and at least every other day.
The supplemental MBE books were very helpful.
The analysis was explained in a very usable manner. Jason made it a point of explaining the material in such a manner that it was understandable. If there was any hint that the analysis did not make sense, Jason attempted another approach in order to ensure that I had a solid grasp on the material.
Jason had a very high level of knowledge for the Bar, from the material to the process of the exam.
Raj Aujla
California Bar # 257618
Jason looks like you are going to have to make this a full time business. I’m serious you should open up shop. Craziness. I really think what you have is amazing.
Your scores are ridiculous. In a few years I’m gonna take a few more states so we will be working together. I’m thinking next year. Once I’m settled I’ll figure out what states I want under my belt.
Well we all know why I refer you… you are some sort of miracle worker lol. Man 180 is ridiculous. I need to know my score. I’m going to apply to DC soon.
Michalle Thompson
California Bar # 259191
Hi, It’s a pleasure to share my thoughts and what I did different this time. I took so many other courses and had too many materials before when I was studying so it was confusing. When I met Jason, I realized that I have never tried a tutor like him that is there whenever I wanted I could email or call. So one of the things that was different this time around was having Jason and him being hard on me and having that person who is going through the bar prep process with me. I had made so many schedules for me each time I studied and tried to stick to it but somehow I always was either behind or was jumping around from one subject to the next. So this time around I had Jason’s schedule and got his emails each day and knew what I was supposed to do. It is different when you wake up each morning and you have someone literally telling you what you need to do. I am a very organized person and even though my prior bar preps I knew what I was supposed to study each day but it is different when you have someone that is kind of like a police that puts you on check. Next, I had so many different outlines that I was using and was overwhelmed and Jason told me to simplify things and I decided to put all the outlines aside. Before I used to read and try to memorize but not be actively involved like do MBE’s and essays.
I did a lot of issue spotting and read Jason’s critical breakdowns and his answers for the essays. Even though before I did do a lot of issue spotting but Jason’s way of breaking down each sentence was amazing and made me understand why the bar examiners have each sentence there. Before I did not do a lot of timed essays but this time I did. Even though I cheated on few of my essays and did not time myself, I decided to start timing because Jason was not giving me a grade anymore even though he was reading my essay and giving comments. Jason was upset with me because I was not doing my essays under timed condition and I literally started doing it timed towards the end. Jason will tell you, I had excuses why I was not timing or why I was behind and he was not buying it. I gathered all my energy and decided that this bar is not that hard I just need to simplify things and not have a repeater mentality. I cut all distractions out of my life and only spoke to few people that were positive and gave good energy. I was not working so I woke up at 7am and was studying at 8am until around ten pm and sometimes until 11 or 12 depending on a day.
When I hit that wall sometimes and was mentally tired I went for a walk and this time I did not call a friend and complain about the bar prep process, I actually cleared my mind while walking and got back to studying again. I took the simulated MBE’s and treated like it was the bar and read all the answers. Taking those MBE’s under timed condition was I believe what probably helped me a lot.
Overall, I changed the way I studied and my way of looking at the bar. Those three days during the bar, I typed and before I hand wrote. I remember I told myself when I saw the essays that I have done so many and this is nothing different so my way of writing for Jason came to my mind and I pretended that I was writing for Jason . I did not make my essays too long and just issue spotted and wrote whatever needed to be written and moved on to the next issue. As for the MBE’s I loved doing them because I considered that day as the fun day. I do remember though that the first 100 my pace wasn’t as fast as it should have been, but I did not panic I moved quicker after lunch on the next 100.
I hope it makes sense it is so late and I probably am going on and on lol but I wanted to share this with you because I know how it feels to fail and study again. You can do it and trust yourself and Jason. If you need anything please email me. I exactly know what you are going through and trust me this bar is not that hard, we make it seem so hard. So just do your work, stay on schedule and talk to Jason if you have questions which I lacked and I wish I spoke to him and had him more involved with me. If you need to talk to me please call me.
Take care,
Jansi Muradyan
California Bar # 275824
Jason,
Thanks for your email! I am very excited for you with all the positive results you have achieved. That is truly amazing! Also, thanks so much for writing regarding my friend. It was actually wonderful because I was able to celebrate with her that Friday night seeing as it was the night of one of our wedding events. So happy for her. And thanks for the congratulations as well!
I have complete faith that with your help, this is their time! I’m gonna keep this going given how much you helped me out!!
Thanks again!
Roli Gupta
California Bar # 256141
Hi Jason.
I feel like i did ok overall on the essay questions with missing very few issues.
thanks Jason… if I pass i know it was because of you…. I’m just nervous on the results to come .. i know for me I need a good MBE score, and i felt very good taking that part of the exam..actually i felt excellent especially with giant fact patterns.. i just hope it’s a score like i was scoring with you before. Again on this bar exam compared to the other ones I took. I did feel more in control of the exam and being confident seeing the issues clearer than before and having a different writing style.
thanks
Mike Munoz
California Bar # 266692
Hey Jason,
I’m impressed with your selection of essays thus far. They do a great job of testing a wide variety of issues. I did all of the MBE’s and felt good………..
………I just checked my email and I passed the bar. You did a great job with the tutoring and program. I’ll give you a ring next week.
Take care,
Sheldon Fuller
California Bar # 262828
Hey Jason,
I thought it was the mbe’s that passed me this time, but now I’m pretty sure the essays had something to do with it
yes, I received your gift. thank you.
Lena Gurevich
California Bar # 269487
Thanks Jason. quite honestly, the explanations have been perfectly informative and the model answers and critical breakdowns (money) have been great, so I haven’t really had any burning questions. I mean I look at the answers slowly, go, ‘yup, that’s right’ and move on. but obviously, if I have a question, I’ll call. thanks
(After he passed) Thank you brosef, and a wonderful summer to you. dude, you’re the real deal. you put my mbe on steroids my man! I’m convinced that destroyed day 1 and 3. people don’t realize how important day 2 is! best!
Ian Wilson
California Bar # 271075
Hi Jason,
I want to give you some well deserved praise for the work you’ve done and continue to do.
I was just checking out your web site at One-Timers and couldn’t find a testimonial from me on there. Anyway, I would like to leave a testimonial for the fine work you did on my behalf, so please let me know how I can accomplish this. I’m sure you’re exceptionally busy this time of year, but drop me a reply when you can. Thanks again, and thanks for the letter, the magazine and all the little extras you’ve been kind enough to send my way, they are much appreciated!
I will be only too happy to provide a testimonial of my excellent experience with you and One-Timers. I’ve been telling everyone I talk to already!
Don’t pay too much attention to this naysayer/defamer. Your services are legit and valuable and affordable and you’re doing it for the right reasons: Good things will follow.
Thanks again for everything,
Subject: The name above appears on the pass list for the February 2010 California Bar Examination.
I freakin’ passed the freakin’ bar exam! Thanks for all your help Jason, I definitely feel you got me over the hump. I can’t believe what a relief I feel!
(can I add, “Esq.” yet, or do I have to be sworn in first? Hah!)
Douglas Belyeu
(Passed – Just submitted Moral Character)
Biggest thank you!
I just received amazing news that I passed the February CA 2010 bar exam. As a repeater, I was discouraged at my failed attempts at taking the bar. I had taken multiple commercial bar review courses that provided passive learning, generic essay critiques, and delayed response times to my questions. I felt discouraged and confused by the many different bar review courses and bar tutors out there who promised successful bar passage.
Then, a friend of mine told me of bar tutor he came across on the internet that he contacted while he was taking his bar exam. This “bar tutor” spent hours on the phone with my friend, teaching him things to expect and how to approach the essays on the night before day 3 of the bar exam. My friend had never met this “bar tutor”, nor had he paid for his tutoring services. Despite this fact, the “bar tutor” stayed on the phone with friend and offered the encouragement and support he needed during a difficult time.
Finally, this “bar tutor” wished my friend the best of luck, but told him if things didn’t work out with his bar results, to keep him in mind and contact him in the future. By the way, did I mention that this “bar tutor” was also sitting for the New York bar exam while mentoring and consoling my friend and passed?!!! This “bar tutor” helped my friend pass the next time.
Similarly, when I failed the bar, my friend told me to give this “bar tutor” a call. So, I called Jason Tolerico of One-Timers.com. I had already spent enough money, been fed a lot of guarantees, and was skeptical about what was different from every other course.
Then, I listened to what Jason had to offer and what he didn’t have to offer. Jason has taken many bars himself and passed every time. This is the type of person you want as a tutor…a person actively taking recent bar exams who can give you current insight into how to master and pass the bar. It doesn’t make sense to use other bar review courses who teach you archaic methods by people who haven’t sat for a bar exam in decades.
This is what Jason provided for me. Through Jason’s teaching method, I received individualized help and all the materials and tools you need to pass. Jason provided me with daily lessons and assignments and kept me on a strict study plan. I found Jason’s “bar boot camp” helped me gain the discipline and structure I needed to get me to the finish line. Jason also offered quick response time and if he was unavailable, he let me know in advance or told me when he would be available. This is crucial because while you are studying and come across something you don’t understand; your questions can’t wait or go unanswered like with other review courses.
More importantly, Jason is available even after work hours during those late nights when you are up studying and come across some crazy rule of law or fact pattern that needs immediate attention. I was never good with MBE’s, but Jason helped me navigate my way to learning how to choose the right answer as opposed to guessing between two right answers. Jason also provides real feedback to your essays and not just chicken scratches with “good job” or inaccurate grading.
This is what Jason does not provide for you. Jason is not a tutor who sugar coats things, gives you warm fuzzy feelings, or promises success unless you put in the work. If you want that, then don’t waste your money or time and go with another bar review course. However, if you want the honest truth, aren’t afraid of hard work, and are ready to pass the bar…then you owe it to yourself to contact Jason Tolerico and let him help you get the bar results you want.
If this is your first time or you are a repeater, I would highly recommend you consider Jason Tolerico’s One-Timer program. The bar exam is already difficult and stressful enough, why make it harder on yourself by settling with other bar review courses. My decision to go with Jason has led me to success, and I can’t wait for you to see your own name on the pass list too! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me:
PS. Thank you for sending the gift. It definitely put a smile on my face.
Tina Dao
California Bar # 270101
It did. And I used that email you sent me on defamation. So I think I wrote the model answer yesterday. It was perfect. Then the 2nd question was good. The 3rd caught me off guard… but I discussed what I could. Then, it’s so funny that the PT was almost exactly the same as the one you gave us a week ago.
Thanks for all of your help!
Melanie Butler
California Bar # 269287
Hey Jason,
Thank you so much for the T shirt, letter, and the Daily journal!! I was pleasantly surprised by your gesture. I didn’t know that our names would appear in there!! I was so excited..I noticed that your Con law answer appeared in the Daily Journal..awesome! I did read your model answers..but after I got my results!! They were well written for sure..
Honestly I loved your answer explanations a lot. I like to tell people about you because you are good at your job and you deserve it.
Thanks a lot for the effort. You are the best!
Your answer explanations are the best. Much better then Finz and Bar-Bri.
It was a pleasure learning from you. Trust me you are one person who delivers what he has promised! I have great respect for you and if I do pass the bar, I will be eternally grateful to you for the rest of my life!
Thanks for making this journey enjoyable!
If I can be of any assistance to you in any way, please do tell me. You must be super busy now with your new batch. Hope all is well with you. Do let me know if you ever need anything from my end..:) Will always be grateful to you!
Take care.
Regards,
Brinda Gandhi
California Bar # 270010
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you…. You were the difference Jason….
I would recommend Jason Tolerico without hesitation. I am a 20 year practicing attorney in Utah, and I sat for the February 2010 CA bar as I am relocating to the Bay area. I thought Jason did a very good job in communicating with me in regards to all aspects of his expectations, his program, and his essay and review assessments. He provided a very practical and somewhat flexible guided study plan with ample time to go back over materials as needed. I was working full time for the bulk of my study period, and Jason was diligent about keeping tabs on me, assisting me in shortcutting what I really needed to cover, what I could realistically skim, what I really needed to hit hard, and the like. I took the attorney’s bar and I did not have to take the MBE. However, because the essays cover all aspects of the MBE, and since the last bar exam I took was in Utah in 1992 (!!!), I had to study as if I were preparing for the MBE.
Jason was very helpful in educating me as to HOW to take the exam – which, in some respects, is as (if not more) important as the subject material itself. That aspect of his program was probably the most beneficial for me. I really am grateful for Jason’s assistance since I was truly at a loss as to where to begin when I decided to take the CA Bar last November. He was incredibly helpful – both in making a decision as to whom I would choose for a tutor and as to the mechanics of the exam itself. He was inexorably available for contacts at all hours, and he was receptive to the most minor or substantive of questions. He really lived up to his motto that he is there to help his students 24/7. Considering my schedule, my existing caseload here in Utah, and other pressing issues which impacted my study schedule – his availability at odd hours, by email, and by phone was a huge draw for me – and a benefit which turned out (for me) to be incomparable. My other alternatives were to choose a program with a once/week meeting schedule, a boilerplate study schedule, and limited conference hours. I have to be honest – had I chosen one of those programs, I think I would have been sunk. Jason’s availability was the biggest draw for me with his program and quite frankly, I am very glad I listened to my gut instincts.
He also provides a benefit which I did not find with another program when I was interviewing other tutors (which, by the way, I spent about 10 days doing). That is, he provides ALL the materials you need to study. For example, since I have a 40-45 minute commute to/from work, he provided me with .mp3 lectures on each subject so I could listen on my iPod and make valuable use of what would have otherwise been a lost 1.5 hours in commuting time – this (for me) was very, very helpful to refresh my memory on subjects I hadn’t really thought about in 20 years (for instance, I am a civil rights/employment lawyer – not much time spent on criminal law or procedure!!) He also provides the study books (as needed), comprehensive outlines, shortened summaries, and sample essays (broken down – literally – line by line – to help you see what examiners seek in each essay question). These materials were a great benefit as the time came closer to allow me to refresh and review each subject area. This aspect of his service was invaluable to me.
Make no mistake – he is a tough taskmaster, he can sometimes be pretty blunt, and he is not one for holding hands. That said, he was very professional and always constructive in his comments. His essay remarks were cohesive and to the point; and, he was always available to walk through practice essays before or after you’d written them. I cannot speak for his other students, but I truly appreciated his time and feedback – it is what made the difference to me. Quite honestly, I was not in the program for social niceties or for ego stroking…. I simply wanted to pass the exam, and I was happy to find a tutor who would be straight up with me as to what I needed to do to get there. I believe that Jason’s frank approach made a difference in my result.
So, the long and the short of it is that I had a very good experience with Jason and I highly recommend him.
For what it’s worth, at last count, I think he had somewhere around a 79-80% pass rate for his students who took the Feb. CA Bar exam. As compared to the overall pass rate for February of 37%, those are pretty good odds in my book.
Best of luck in your choice!
Regards,
Elizabeth (“Lisa”) M. Peck
Utah State Bar # 06304
California Bar # 277794
I am very impressed with Jason Tolerico’s services for the Bar. From working with him, I felt that not only does he know his stuff, but he is willing to follow up with students and provide the care and support necessary to get them through the difficulty of taking the Bar. I noticed through my own observation and in talking to others that people fail the Bar not because the information is too difficult but that they simply don’t put in the effort necessary to prepare for the Bar. This may be due to burn out, stress, lack of feedback, overconfidence or a variety of factors. I see this especially in repeaters who are defeated, ashamed and in denial of their failures.
I think what people need for success on the Bar is not only a tutor, but also a coach to help them through the Bar. Jason is all of that. Jason provides a schedule with daily assignments for the Bar. He gives the schedule in a daily email and follows up with his students. He covers not only the essay writing portion, but also the MBE and the Performance Test portions of the Bar. He can bring in specialists to help students if needed. He is accessible by phone and even in person. His course materials and information on the Bar is current. He is passionate about the Bar and in helping people with the Bar. He has great energy and an infectious positive attitude. Also, his MBE questions are NCBE MBE questions. These are the actual questions from past Bar exams and the greatest indicator of the types of MBE questions in Bar exams to come. This is the only objective portion of the Bar that is not subject to how a person may “feel” about an exam. He is one of the few people I personally know of that has a license for that and this one fact itself makes his help worthwhile in my opinion.
I too looked at forums like this one to find a Bar tutor and coach because failing was not an option. There are many great tutors out there. Make your own choice and make the right choice. For me, the right choice was Jason Tolerico.
Paul Liu
California Bar # 270217
Hi Jason,
I stand behind your course and think you have been a wonderful tutor.
I just completed the most recent MBE exam and scored a 157/200 (78.5%). I am very happy with this score and it looks like the long hours going over the MBE questions are finally starting to pay off.
Thanks,
Wow Jason. My name appears on the pass list. I can’t believe it!
Janssen Diaz
(Passed but not admitted yet)
JT,
I finished the MBE exam in two hours and forty-five minutes (I followed your schedule and tried really hard to SLOW DOWN!) And I think it worked pretty well. I got 73 out of 100. I’m pretty happy with that, for the first one. That said, I know I can get my MBE score up even higher to give myself greater leverage with the essays and PT’s
Woohoo! Yay for Bar-related victories!
P.s. I am super glad I went with your program, Jason. You are turning me into a successful MBE test-taker…huge grin!
So, thanks
I’ve done 25 more Torts MBE’s today, and I’m scoring 80 percent. That’s SO much better than 42 percent – ha! I think our going through (with you) several of the ones I missed really helped.
Thanx again. You’re fabulous!
(After she passed) I feel AMAZING. Seriously. Best 24 hours of my life! THANK YOU
Lindsey Bittner
California Bar # 269553
Hi Jason
I am proud to have a tutor like you too! I am working hard and hoping that it pays off.
I just wanted to thank you for all the hard work you did and made us do the same. I can’t even tell you how thankful I am. I mean a foreign attorney who did not even go to law school clearing on the first attempt is a miracle and trust me you gave me the confidence to dream that.
You are the best Jason!!
Thank you so much Jason!! This is such a sweet email, which shows you not only a good tutor but a great human being.
I am so thrilled Jason. This is the greatest achievement of mine and all thanks to you.
Nidhi Baweja
(Passed – Moral Character processing)
JT,
You’re a good man and a good friend. Your kind words mean a lot to me. I feel very good knowing what you’ve done w/ me and the great program you’ve created, so the bar is no longer intimidating at all. I’ve actually never been more relaxed-the main reason being is that I know with certainty that the bar can be easily negotiated (not to sound cavalier) with your approach. Trust me when I tell you that my biggest concern after last July was getting the right instruction and how to prepare. Since I now have that base covered, I’m not worried about the results as I win either way. Thanks again for everything and although I’m optimistic and hopeful, I’m keeping things in proper perspective. I’ll look forward to talking to you tonight. Take care.
Mark Swatik
California Bar # 269542
Hi,
I would not hesitate in the least to recommend Jason Tolerico without reservation, to the point where I would say please withdraw from Bar-Bri now and sign up with Jason. That being said, I should tell you my situation to provide context and qualify that statement.
This bar (July 2009) was my not my first attempt at the bar. Although I had all the Bar-Bri study materials and books, I never took a course through them. This was due to the fact that I work a full time job that really prevented me from being able to attend the Bar-Bri lectures on a daily basis. Further, from my first time taking the exam (and every subsequent time), I scored very high, with just needing a few points here and there to get over the hump. Additionally, I had purchased the PMBR lectures on CD to listen to on my commute. So I felt that if I just studied a little harder, got some better questions, etc., that would make the difference. But after my next unsuccessful attempt, I realized that it was not quite a lack of understanding of the materials, it was how I was approaching studying and taking the test.
So while I can’t say that I have taken both Bar-Bri and Jason’s courses, and here is why Jason’s is so much better, I can tell you what was so fantastic about Jason’s course for me, and also compare it to what I have heard about Bar-Bri.
Jason provides a clear and methodical approach to studying that is delivered via email in manageable doses so that you do not get overwhelmed. The calendar lays out a topic plan of attack that is designed each day at a time, whereby you will have reading of outlines, MBE’s and essay questions relating to that material. Each day dedicated to the subject builds on itself and then is reinforced throughout the program. The completion of each subject culminates with a practice graded exam essay on that subject. While all this is occurring, Jason is available to a scary degree to discuss any problems, questions, or deficiencies you might have. If you want more practice, he will give it to you. If you want to talk on the phone for an hour about a question he will. The practice MBE’s he provides have GREAT explanations as to why an answer is right or wrong or the applicable rule of law so that you aren’t just correcting a practice exam, but seeing why a question is right, why an answer is wrong, where the examiners try to mislead you and why people often pick an answer that is wrong. This is so much more helpful and different from the Bar-Bri or PMBR ones that basically just provide you with the correct answer choice and cut and paste the outline into the answer section. Finally, Jason will see where YOU are lacking and take care of that.
From what I know about Bar-Bri, they do not provide (or at least to the level that Jason does) the clear structure of a study plan and materials to attack that plan, accountability and personal attention/interaction and most of all MOTIVATION. For me, and I believe any person taking the bar, these things are the difference between passing and failing. Bar-Bri crams hundreds of students into a lecture hall, provides a lecture on a subject and sends you on your way to study. I know from speaking to my friend who took Bar-Bri that they do not chase you down if you don’t turn in a practice exam or show up to a lecture, they don’t call you to see how you are doing or if there is anything more they can do or help with, or just simply address your needs as they arise. In short, Bar-Bri addresses the needs of the group whereas Jason will address YOUR needs.
I cannot speak highly enough of Jason Tolerico, his course, or what he did for me. If there is anything further you have questions on, or have a specific concern you want to ask me about that I didn’t address in my rambling email, please don’t hesitate to email me back.
Good luck on your next attempt!
I am on the pass list.
I couldn’t have done it without you. Thank you for all your help and support!
Ryan Freimann
California Bar # 272131
Jason,
I just finished all 128 contracts questions and ended with 85%. Hopefully, I do as well on the 40 question MBE test. Thanks for the discussion earlier.
Thank you, I feel better about my PT. I plan to employ your outlined technique for my next one.
In regards to your email yesterday, I have found that by *********** (Confidential Course Information) ************************** I have gained much more knowledge of the material than I ever would have without ******. I am finally understanding how the concepts go together and anyone who is not doing this review is in trouble. Anyway, enough of my rambling, just wanted you to know.
Thanks for your help, that example you gave was very clear! Thank you!
Brian Victor
California Bar # 270410
Hey Jason,
It was tough. I felt excited about it because I distinctly remember recognizing a lot of issues, and feeling like a champ because I didn’t panic, and was able to work with/IRAC one issue at a time all the way through this. I felt much more calm and competent on the 3rd morning, and I’m ready to see what Nov 20 brings my way!
Thanks again for helping me destroy the bar exam, I truly appreciate it!
Keith Lynch, Esq.
California Bar # 268685
Jason:
Long time, no harassment from me. What is going on? I am just cleaning out my email records and noticed how helpful you were again with guiding me through studying to pass the California bar exam. Thanks, you are a real positive, nice person. What I noticed especially is that you were able to take my jokes without getting overly serious and it made studying for the bar and taking it a lot easier. I wish I knew more people like you at the moment.
Take Care and thanks again.
Sincerely,
Rosemary Marcell
California Bar # 255099
Thank you! Ohh the lovely checklists…I didn’t use them at all, I can’t believe it. No “security blanket…”
Checklists are for suckers who aren’t confident enough to let the facts drive their discussion. Ha ha, take that!!
Thank you again for taking the time to help me get over my frustrations with the MBE last night…it was a huge help and I slept a lot better.
Can’t thank you enough.
Arez Shahparnia
California Bar # 271002
Oh…I have YOU to thank, You can’t understand how much you helped me. I understand the laws and the rationale behind the laws. If students follow your directions there is nothing to fear about the Bar except overcome personal stress and nervousness about the test.
I pray November brings good tidings.
Thanks a lot, Jason.
Bisi Akanwo
California Bar # 269567
Jason- just finished taking the simulated MBE and grading it. My results- raw score of 72. I am going to review the answers later today.
I was shocked! I just pray that I can do this on the real thing!
Thanks Jason. I just really hope that I can keep it up. BTW….the score is attributed to your techniques! But anyway, it’s still early in the game, so I don’t want to take it for granted. Still want to do the best I can.
(At the bar) I went thru the essays. I feel pretty good about Torts and Contracts. I hit about 80-90% of the issues there. I think I did okay on Civ Pro (addressed the venue okay and hit the subpoena issue, but very briefly since I had no clue on the actual procedure of it.) As for Corporations, I had the opposite arguments than you did.
All in all…I think it’s going to be a close call. Hopefully, I did okay on the MBE and the PT’s.
Thanks for listening and for your advice yesterday!
Archana Srivastava
California Bar # 264964
Hey Jason!!! How is everything going in Colorado? I finished today!!!! I think that it went well. I thought that it was not that difficult. The PT in the afternoon was very engaging, I enjoyed doing it. Yesterday I found that the last 20 MBE were very hard.
But overall I think I did well, we will see in May. Thank you again for your help.
I do not Know my odds, but I was very well prepared. My MBE were higher than ever, and I was confident with my writing and I had a very good teacher. Something that I think that help me was reading the long outline. Nobody wants to do that, but it gives you a better understanding of the law.
In regard to the MBE question, I did not care much about that. I liked your way of analyzing the essays. I liked the fact of having everyday an assignment to do.
Anyway, Thank you again, and if you want to give my phone number to somebody that ask for references please do, I have only good things to say about you.
Mariela Hubiak
(Passed but waiting on admissions)
Jason,
Anything that I have done for you pales in comparison to what you did for me buddy.
First off, congrats on finishing another class in the Tolerico Bar Tutoring Program! I hope all else is well.
Best,
Najeeb Kudiya
California Bar # 263505
Jason,
Thanks for the evidence and remedies info the other month — I received an A- in both courses. I plan on studying for the July bar in OC. I have not signed up for Bar-Bri and was considering possibly learning directly through you instead.
Thanks,
Steve Schinko
California Bar # 265716
Hello:
I wanted to thank you you for all of your help. I appreciate all of the things that you taught me over the last couple of months and I feel that I learned a lot in a short time. Additionally, I feel that I was able to handle the MBE section of the bar with greater ease this time around. I hope you continue to keep helping people tackle the bar because you’re doing a great Job.
Talk to you soon.
Marina White
California Bar # 262975
Hi Jason,
Just thought I would send a quick note to see how you are doing. I’m loving life as a lawyer…thank you again for being part of that success!!
How is life otherwise for you? Hope all is well!
Cheers,
Amber Robinson
Nevada Bar # 10731
Hi Jason,
I just finished checking my answers and I’m rather amused at my results. I scored 163 out of 200. If I only had MBE scores like this or even just close to it in my past exams, I could have already passed the CA bar exam of a beast by now! Thanks really for the approach you taught me. I’m really loving doing MBE’s now… if only I could translate these practices into reality come exam time…
I deeply appreciate additional comments like these. I hope I will receive the same treatment for all written assignments to come.
With just a few days to go before the big one, I would just like to reiterate my thanks for all you’ve been doing for us. At this point, all we could do is to hope and pray that we would be able to implement and capitalize on the things you taught us since the first mentoring day.
I feel I just want to go back through your general discussions, templates, outlines, and do a few MBE’s on the side. Besides, I do not think my writing style or organization will change anymore. However, please still do provide me the PT/essay questions and your/student answers for review even if I do not write them out. Please also continue, as you always do, to send me out last minute tips, notes/lectures, discussions, or actual exam questions (just kidding…LOL).
I do look forward to your kind consideration of my request.
Best regards,
Cesar Lachica
California Bar # 266634
Seriously, by all the tears she shed throughout the three days we stayed together for the bar, I figured you were a miracle worker. I think after the MBE day, I was convincing her not to quit and that she needed to go to day 3. Really happy it all worked out.
Marlo Go
California Bar # 269908
Jason is an expert at bar examinations. He is the only person I have ever met who can unravel the most difficult bar questions. If you follow his advice, you will pass the bar. Don’t waste your money on any other program.
Give me a call some time. We’ll do lunch.
Zack McCready
California Bar # 249885
And these are just a few…………………………..