Facing the CPA Challenge: A Journey of Trials and Reflections

As I prepare for my final attempt at the CPA exam, I find myself grappling with a whirlwind of emotions. It’s been a long journey filled with ups and downs, and now, just two days away from the exam, I can’t help but reflect on what’s brought me here.

This marks my third endeavor to conquer the CPA certification. My past attempts have been a rollercoaster ride:

• First Attempt: I successfully navigated Day 1 but stumbled on Day 2, not meeting the Level 1 sufficiency criteria, resulting in a Level 7 score.

• Second Attempt: Unfortunately, I faced a similar fate, failing the Level 1 sufficiency again but only managing to secure a Level 2. I relied on Densmore resources during this attempt, hoping for a different outcome.

• Third Attempt: As I approach this final hurdle, I’m filled with uncertainty and a bit of humor about the whole situation.

At this point, a part of me just wants to wrap this whole ordeal up, regardless of whether I pass or fail. This exam has consumed so much of my time and energy, and I look forward to reclaiming my life after this attempt. Once it’s over, I plan to discard all my notes and books, leaving behind the stress and moving on to new opportunities.

Of course, if I don’t succeed this time, I know it will sting. There’s a certain pressure that comes from friends and family, and I understand the ego bruise that accompanies failure. However, I also recognize that life doesn’t hinge solely on this certification. Options like pursuing an MBA or exploring different fields remain open to me. The truth is, my passion for Accounting is minimal; I tolerate it more than I enjoy it, finding much of the work repetitive and uninspiring.

Conversely, if I do manage to pass, it would be a significant personal achievement. I would feel a sense of pride in having triumphed over the exam and could celebrate this milestone with confidence. Yet, I must admit that my respect for the CPA designation has dwindled, primarily due to the way it has been handled post-amalgamation. To me, CPA has simply become a stepping stone towards higher pay, rather than a symbol of professional esteem.

The entire CPA Canada process often feels like a farce—a system that teaches how to excel at tests and de