Countdown to the CFE: A Third Attempt at the CPA Challenge

As the clock ticks down to my upcoming Common Final Examination (CFE), which takes place in just two days, my emotions are a mixed bag of anticipation and anxiety. This will mark my third attempt at conquering this significant hurdle in my professional journey.

A Brief Recap of My Journey:

• Attempt 1: I managed to pass Day 1 but fell short on Level 1 Sufficiency for Days 2 and 3, earning a Level 7.
• Attempt 2: Again, I faced disappointment with Level 1 Sufficiency, receiving only a Level 2 this time around. For this attempt, I tried using Densmore materials, but it didn’t yield the results I hoped for.
• Attempt 3: And here I am, in a matter of days, heading into my third shot at this exam. Who really knows how it will go?

To be honest, a part of me just wants to draw a line under this entire process—pass or fail. I long for the freedom that lies beyond this exam. After this attempt, I envision a life where I can finally dispose of my notes and textbooks and move forward without looking back.

The Weight of Failure:

Of course, if I don’t pass, I know that it will hit me hard, especially when it comes to facing friends and family. The potential ego blow is daunting, but I’ve come to understand that with time, I would likely find a way to shake it off. There are plenty of other paths available, such as pursuing an MBA or exploring different fields of study. Life certainly doesn’t come to a halt at the CPA designation.

Truthfully, I’ve never found joy in this work. “Tolerating” it is the best I can say. It’s monotonous and—let’s be honest—tedious at best.

The Rewards of Passing:

That said, passing this exam would certainly be a sweet victory. It would be a testament to my perseverance, allowing me to walk away with my head held high, knowing that I managed to succeed where I previously fell short. However, I must admit that my respect for the CPA designation isn’t as robust as it could be. To me, it has become somewhat of a running joke, especially considering how it has been administered post-amalgamation.

In my eyes, the CPA represents just a stepping stone toward