Navigating the CPA Exam: A Personal Journey

As I sit here just two days away from my third attempt at the CPA exam, I find myself overwhelmed with a whirlwind of emotions. It’s hard to pinpoint exactly how I feel—nervous, anxious, and perhaps a bit amused by the whole situation.

Let me provide a bit of context: this will be my third endeavor into this taxing journey. My first attempt showed promise; I successfully passed Day 1, but unfortunately, I fell short on the Level 1 Sufficiency section for Days 2 and 3 and ended up with a level 7. My second attempt? Well, let’s just say history repeated itself. I failed Level 1 Sufficiency once more, scoring only a level 2 despite using Densmore’s materials for preparation.

As for this third attempt? Who knows what the outcome will be. Part of me is simply eager for closure—whether I pass or fail, I’m ready to reclaim my life. After this, I plan to discard all my notes and resources pertaining to the exam and move on with a sense of finality.

Of course, a failure would likely sting for a while—especially with the inevitable questions from friends and family. Yet I believe time would help me move past the disappointment. There are numerous paths to explore beyond the CPA designation, like pursuing an MBA or even delving into an entirely different field that excites me. I’ve come to realize that life doesn’t hinge on achieving a CPA, and truthfully, my experience with this profession hasn’t been one of joy; it’s more about tolerating the day-to-day grind, which I find rather mundane and tedious.

On the flip side, passing this exam would feel incredible. I would have the satisfaction of knowing I achieved something that I’ve fought hard to conquer. But let’s be honest—passing isn’t about gaining respect for the CPA designation itself. In many ways, I find it a bit of a joke, especially considering the changes and challenges that have arisen since the amalgamation process. For me, the CPA is merely a stepping stone toward a better-paying job, nothing more.

Reflecting on the entire CPA Canada process, it feels like a colossal farce. The exam seems to prepare individuals more for test-taking rather than equipping them for real-world challenges. It’s a costly endeavor that often feels more about the expenditures than genuine professional readiness.

As I drift through these thoughts, I