Preparing for the CFE: A Mixed Bag of Emotions

As I gear up for my upcoming Common Final Examination (CFE), just two days away, I find myself flooded with a whirlwind of emotions. This marks my third attempt at conquering this crucial milestone on the path to becoming a CPA. To give you some context, here’s a brief overview of my previous attempts:

Attempt #1: I managed to pass Day 1 but stumbled on Level 1 Sufficiency for Days 2 and 3, scoring a Level 7.
Attempt #2: Unfortunately, I faced the same fate, failing Level 1 Sufficiency once again, this time with a Level 2 grade. For my second round, I utilized the Densmore resources.
Attempt #3: Who knows what will happen this time around?

At this juncture, I just want to see the end of this process—pass or fail. It’s more about regaining a sense of normalcy in my life post-exam; a freedom from the overwhelming pressure and relentless study sessions. Once this attempt is over, I envision getting rid of my notes and textbooks and moving forward, regardless of the outcome.

Of course, if I don’t succeed, I know it will hurt for a while. The ego blow, particularly in front of friends and family, will sting. But deep down, I’m confident that time will help me heal. I recognize there are alternative paths available, such as pursuing an MBA or diving into a different area of study. Life continues beyond the CPA designation.

Interestingly, I’ve never truly enjoyed my work in this field. While I can tolerate it, I find it to be rather mundane and tedious at its core. Stepping back, I realize that if I do pass, it would indeed feel like an achievement—an opportunity to hold my head high and validate my efforts. However, my regard for the CPA designation itself is quite low. I perceive it as somewhat of a farce, especially given the way it has been managed following the amalgamation of governing bodies.

For me, the CPA designation primarily serves as a stepping stone toward better job opportunities and higher pay. Beyond that, I don’t believe it inherently makes someone a better professional. My journey through this CPA Canada process has been frustrating, and the exam feels more like a means to sharpen my test-taking skills rather than prepare me for a genuine career as a CPA.

As I navigate through