The CPA Journey: Another Attempt with Mixed Emotions

As I approach my third attempt at the CPA (Chartered Professional Accountant) examination, a whirlwind of emotions is swirling inside me. It’s a strange mix of anxiety, anticipation, and an overwhelming desire to finally put this taxing chapter of my life behind me.

Reflecting on my previous attempts, I can’t help but feel a sense of frustration. In my first try, I managed to pass Day 1 but then faltered on Level 1 sufficiency for Days 2 and 3, landing me a Level 7. Attempt number two resulted in a similar outcome; I again failed to meet the sufficiency criteria, scoring only a Level 2 despite utilizing study materials from Densmore. And now, as I gear up for attempt number three, I find myself in a bit of a quandary: who knows what will happen?

Part of me just wants this to be over—whether I pass or fail, the result will grant me a sense of closure. I long to reclaim my life after this exam; I envision tossing my notes and textbooks aside, no longer looking back and ready to move on to new opportunities.

If I do not succeed, I understand that it may be a tough pill to swallow. There would undoubtedly be moments of disappointment, particularly when faced with the reactions of friends and family. However, I’ve come to realize that life offers many pathways beyond the CPA designation, such as pursuing an MBA or a degree in a completely different field. The reality is, the world does not stop at obtaining a CPA, and frankly, I find little joy in the work itself—it’s merely tolerable at best.

Conversely, if I manage to pass this time, it would undoubtedly feel amazing. I would have a sense of pride in achieving something daunting, and it would offer me a moment to showcase my accomplishment. Yet, deep down, I know this designation holds no real esteem in my eyes. The way the CPA designation has been managed, especially following the amalgamation, has, in my opinion, diminished its value significantly.

To me, becoming a CPA represents just a means to an end—a stepping stone to secure a higher-paying job. My experiences have shown me that it’s a mixed bag, often tilting towards the less favorable side of the scale.

As I navigate through the labyrinth of the CPA Canada process, it feels more like a costly joke than a legitimate path to professional development.