Michael Barach

Biography

I grew up in Los Angeles but moved to the Bay Area for college, where I’ve happily stayed ever since. At UC Berkeley, I created my own interdisciplinary major, blending music, cognitive science, and psychology. I graduated with high honors, a near-perfect GPA, and an award-winning senior thesis. I participated in a variety of extracurricular activities including composing music for several short films as well as serving as the creative director for a student-run comedy magazine. Outside of the classroom, I spent (and spend) much of my time performing with jazz bands, reading biographies, teaching guitar and music theory lessons, and backpacking.

My passion for education and mentorship started with teaching music and working as a counselor at Camp Kesem, a summer camp for children of parents with cancer. Now, as a college counselor, my goal is to guide you and your family through the entire admissions process—from building a college list to soul-searching about majors to writing compelling essays.

When it comes to college essays, I believe authenticity is key. The best essays come from leaning into what makes you unique and sharing your story in a way that only you can. My intention is to help you craft an honest, compelling, and cohesive narrative that favorably highlights the experiences and qualities that make you who you are. Together, we’ll explore the moments in your life that have been most meaningful and shape them into a story that resonates with admissions committees.

While most of my students apply to academic majors, I also work with students to explore music and the arts as a potential major or extracurricular interest in college and find a program that’s a great fit for them.