Bari Norman
Head Counselor and Co-Founder
Expert Admissions

What drew you to the world of college admission counseling?
Neither of my parents went to college, but an independent counselor took me under her wing (shout-out to Beth Wald!). Quite simply, she changed my life. She helped me find Barnard College (NY), which I had never heard of, and she led me through the college admissions process so I could land in a place where I finally felt in my element. In college I was a tour guide; after graduation, I worked as a Barnard admissions officer. The rest is history!

What is your favorite part of the job?
I love helping students discover themselves and come into their own. The college process asks students to think about who they are and who they want to be, and what they want versus what they need. For many kids, it’s the first time they’re really having a choice in where they go to school. It’s an honor to walk alongside students through a process that will likely be one of those memorable times in their lives. Plus, Barnard changed my life. How exciting that I get to help students find their Barnard?

How has NACAC played a role in your career?
I’ve found the learning and networking opportunities through NACAC to be invaluable. At every stage of my career, NACAC has been a helpful resource. That looked different when I started almost 30 years ago than it does today, and I’m grateful that no matter at what point I’ve been in my career, NACAC has been there for me.

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing our profession today?
There are so many challenges but from where I sit, I’d love to see the process simplified for students. I challenge all of us on both sides of the desk to figure out how to bring joy into this process for students.

When you aren’t working, what do you like to do?
I am a huge Broadway fan. I have no artistic talent myself, but I’m in awe of everyone on stage and behind the scenes. I also love exercising and being outdoors, and of course just spending simple, easy time with my family.

What five words would you use to describe yourself?
Independent.
Kind.
Resilient.
Curious.
Real.

 

Published March 24, 2025