Facing the CFE: A Personal Journey Through CPA Challenges

With the CFE (Common Final Examination) just two days away, I find myself in a whirlwind of emotions, unsure of exactly how to process the upcoming challenge. This will be my third attempt at conquering this exam, and to say I’m feeling anxious would be an understatement.

Looking Back on My Previous Attempts

Reflecting on my journey, I’ve encountered a few roadblocks along the way:

• Attempt #1: I managed to pass the first day but stumbled on the Level 1 Sufficiency challenge, ultimately receiving a Level 7 score.

• Attempt #2: Once again, I tripped on the Level 1 Sufficiency, finishing with only a Level 2 score. For this attempt, I utilized the Densmore study materials.

Attempt #3: Here We Go Again

And now, here I am on the brink of my third try. Honestly, part of me just wants to put this all behind me—regardless of whether I pass or fail. The goal is to reclaim my life after this examination, to finally toss my notes and textbooks aside, and to move on to whatever is next.

If I don’t succeed, I know it will sting, especially with the inevitable drop in morale among friends and family. But, I also believe that given time, I will fully recover from such a setback. There are always alternatives, whether it’s pursuing an MBA or exploring a different field entirely. Life doesn’t come to a halt after the CPA journey, after all.

A Love-Hate Relationship with the CPA Designation

The truth is, I don’t even find joy in the work associated with being a CPA; I merely tolerate it. The tasks can be mundane and tedious at best. That said, if I do pass this time, it would certainly feel fulfilling, allowing me to take pride in my perseverance and ability to conquer the exam. However, I have to admit that my respect for the CPA designation is minimal at this point. Given how the exam has been handled post-amalgamation, it feels somewhat trivialized.

For me, obtaining the CPA designation represents just a means to an end—better job prospects and higher pay. I’ve come to view it as a mixed bag, often leaning towards disappointments rather than achievements.

The Bigger Picture

As I sit down to reflect, I can’t help but feel frustrated with the entire CPA Canada