The Countdown to CFE: Navigating My Third Attempt

As I prepare for the upcoming Common Final Examination (CFE) in just two days, I find myself grappling with a whirlwind of emotions and reflections. This will be my third endeavor at passing this pivotal exam, and to say I feel a mix of anticipation and anxiety would be an understatement.

Let’s take a brief look at my journey so far:

• Attempt #1: My initial attempt was a roller coaster; I successfully passed Day 1 but fell short on Level 1 Sufficiency for Days 2 and 3, finishing with a Level 7.

• Attempt #2: I faced disappointment again, failing Level 1 Sufficiency once more, with a final score of Level 2. This time, I relied on Densmore’s materials for my preparation.

• Attempt #3: Here we are again, and honestly, who knows what will happen this time around!

Part of me sincerely wishes to simply move past this examination—whether that means passing or failing. The prospect of finally reclaiming my life once the CFE is over is incredibly appealing. With this last attempt, I envision tossing aside my notes and textbooks, eager to step into a new chapter and explore what lies ahead.

Naturally, the thought of failing does echo in my mind. The potential hit to my self-esteem, especially in the eyes of friends and family, is daunting. Yet, I am aware that, with time, I would likely recover from such a setback. There are plenty of paths to explore—like pursuing an MBA or venturing into a different field altogether. It’s crucial to remember that life certainly doesn’t end with a CPA designation.

To be candid, I don’t truly enjoy the work associated with this path. I can tolerate it, but that’s about it. The repetitiveness can be mundane and tedious, which hardly stirs any passion within me.

Should I manage to pass this exam, it would certainly be a personal triumph. I could take pride in achieving a goal I set for myself, allowing me to hold my head high. However, my respect for the CPA designation has waned significantly. The current administration of the CPA process, especially following recent amalgamations, feels disheartening and almost laughable at times.

Ultimately, the CPA has become merely a stepping stone for me—a means to secure a higher-paying job, nothing more. My experiences