[CAN] CFE in Two days and I don’t know how to feel about it lol

The CPA Exam: A Rollercoaster of Emotions

As I prepare to tackle the CPA exam for the third time in just two days, I find myself in a whirlwind of mixed feelings. This journey has been far from straightforward, and it’s hard to know how to gauge my emotions right now.

A Look Back at Previous Attempts

Let me take you through my past experiences. On my first attempt, I managed to pass Day 1 but fell short on Level 1 Sufficiency for Days 2 and 3, ending with a Level 7. My second try went even less favorably, as I again failed Level 1 Sufficiency, this time scoring a Level 2 despite studying with Densmore’s materials.

Now, with my third attempt looming, I find myself in a peculiar mindset. Part of me is eager to just get this ordeal behind me—whether I pass or fail, I yearn for closure. After this exam, I plan to discard my notes and books, allowing myself to finally move on.

Facing the Fear of Failure

I recognize that if I do not succeed this time around, it will likely sting for a while, especially when it comes to how my achievement—or lack thereof—might be perceived by friends and family. However, I’ve come to terms with the fact that there are alternatives to the CPA designation, like pursuing an MBA or venturing into a different field altogether. Life won’t halt if I don’t earn this designation, and honestly, my engagement with the work has become more of a tolerance than a passion.

The Pros and Cons of Success

Should I pass, it would certainly feel rewarding. It would be validation for all the effort I’ve poured into preparing for this exam. I could take pride in the achievement and perhaps even revel in a sense of accomplishment. Yet, I can’t shake the feeling that the designation itself holds little value for me. The way it has been managed post-amalgamation leaves much to be desired, and the title feels more like a stepping stone to better job prospects rather than a true measure of expertise.

A Critical View of the CPA Process

It’s frustrating to think that this entire CPA process often feels like a farce. The exams don’t seem to adequately prepare future CPAs for the realities of the profession; instead, they primarily train candidates to excel at test-taking while simultaneously draining their finances.

At this point, I realize that I might be venting a bit