Navigating the CPA Journey: Reflections Before My Third Attempt

As I gear up for my third attempt at the CPA exam, I find myself in a whirlwind of emotions. This time, I can’t help but feel a mix of excitement and anxiety as the exam approaches in just two days.

In my previous attempts, I’ve faced my share of challenges. The first attempt saw me passing Day 1 but stumbling on Day 2 and 3 due to failing Level 1 Sufficiency, landing me a Level 7. The second attempt didn’t fare any better; I again missed the mark on Level 1 Sufficiency, achieving only a Level 2 this time, despite preparing with Densmore resources. As for this upcoming attempt? Who knows what awaits me.

At this point, I just want to put this chapter behind me, regardless of the outcome. Whether I pass or fail, my hope is to reclaim my life after this exam. I plan to discard all my study materials and finally move on, shedding the weight of this relentless preparation.

I can anticipate the emotional fallout if I don’t succeed; it will undoubtedly cause a dent in my self-esteem, especially in the eyes of friends and family. However, I’ve reassured myself that life goes on, and I have alternative paths to explore, such as pursuing an MBA or diving into a completely different field. The notion that my life hinges solely on passing the CPA exam feels limiting. The irony is that I’m not even passionate about this line of work. It’s more about tolerance at this point— a repetitive, mundane cycle.

Should I pass, it would, without a doubt, feel rewarding. I’d have something to celebrate—a personal victory in managing to conquer the exam. Yet, the designation itself holds little respect in my eyes. The way it has been structured and administered post-amalgamation feels like a farce.

To me, the CPA serves as just a stepping stone. It’s primarily a means to secure a better-paying job, nothing more. My experiences have shown me a mixed reality, often swaying towards disappointment. The entire CPA Canada process often feels disconnected from the real-world application of skills, seemingly prioritizing test-taking prowess over practical readiness.

As I share these thoughts, I’m not entirely sure where this rant is taking me. But I do know that it reflects my current mindset as I prepare for the journey ahead. Let’s see what the next few days bring. Regardless of the path, my