My Upcoming CPA Exam: A Rollercoaster of Emotions

In just two days, I will be sitting for what will be my third attempt at the CPA exam, and I find myself grappling with a whirlwind of emotions. Here’s a brief recap of my journey so far:

• Attempt #1: I managed to pass Day 1 but fell short on Level 1 Sufficiency for Days 2 and 3, achieving a Level 7.
• Attempt #2: Once again, I faced disappointment with a Level 2 result, struggling once more with Level 1 Sufficiency. For this round, I turned to Densmore for guidance.
• Attempt #3: And now here I am, just two days away, with a mix of hope and skepticism about what’s to come.

Part of me feels an overwhelming desire to just get this over with—whether I pass or fail. Achieving closure is important to me, and I long for the freedom that will come after this attempt. I envision tossing my notes and textbooks aside and moving on with my life.

The thought of failing this time around does weigh heavily on my mind, especially in terms of how it might feel to face friends and family. While I know the initial hit to my ego would sting, I’m also aware that with time, I would be able to move past it. The world won’t end with one failed exam; there are plenty of pathways available, whether that means pursuing an MBA or diving into a completely different field.

Ironically, as much as I respect the effort required to become a CPA, my enthusiasm for the work itself is lukewarm at best. It often feels mundane and tedious, and I find myself merely tolerating it rather than enjoying it.

On the flip side, there’s a part of me that fantasizes about passing the exam. The thought of being able to hold my head high and share that accomplishment is appealing. However, I need to acknowledge that for me, this designation feels more like a stepping stone rather than a badge of honor. It’s merely a strategic move to secure a better-paying job.

To be candid, my experiences with the CPA process have left me with a somewhat bitter taste. The system, particularly in Canada, seems rife with inefficiencies that do little to prepare aspiring CPAs for real-world challenges. Instead, it often appears to prioritize test-taking skills and financial expenditures over meaningful professional development.

As I reflect on