Preparing for the CFE: A Personal Reflection on the Journey So Far

With the CFE (Common Final Examination) just two days away, a wave of mixed emotions washes over me. This will mark my third attempt at conquering this challenging certification. Each previous attempt has brought its own unique set of highs and lows, making this journey one of self-discovery and resilience.

In my first attempt, I made it through Day 1 but faltered in achieving the Level 1 sufficiency necessary for the subsequent days, landing a Level 7 overall. During my second try, I faced similar disappointments, yet again failing to meet the Level 1 sufficiency and achieving a mere Level 2 score, despite relying on the Densmore study method.

As I stand on the brink of this third attempt, I feel a mix of anticipation and frustration. Part of me is eager to simply finish this ordeal, regardless of the outcome — whether I pass or not. The allure of putting my notes and textbooks aside and reclaiming my life is incredibly appealing. It’s a chapter in my life that I yearn to close.

Should I face another setback, I know the initial sting of failure will linger, especially with friends and family watching. However, I also believe that with time, I can move past it. There are numerous paths available in life, including pursuing an MBA or exploring other fields. The journey to becoming a CPA doesn’t define my professional worth.

To be honest, my interest in this career has waned. I tolerate the work at best; it often feels mundane and tedious. If I were to pass this time around, I wouldn’t deny the sense of achievement it would bring — a testament to my ability to persevere through the exam. But at the same time, I find it hard to hold a deep respect for the CPA designation itself. The way it has been administered since the amalgamation has left much to be desired, making it feel more like a hurdle to clear rather than a true badge of honor.

In essence, the CPA has become a means to an end for me — a stepping stone towards a more lucrative job, rather than a career passion. My experiences suggest a mixed bag of outcomes, leaning decidedly more towards the challenging aspects.

As I reflect on my journey through the CPA Canada process, I can’t help but see it as a farce at times. The exam seems more focused on teaching you how to take tests and manage expenses rather than