The Journey to the CPA Exam: Anticipation and Reflection

As I prepare for my CPA exam in just two days, I find myself engulfed in a whirlwind of emotions. This marks my third attempt at achieving this certification, and I can’t help but reflect on my past experiences.

Attempt #1 was a mixture of hope and disappointment. I passed Day 1, only to stumble on Level 1 Sufficiency for Days 2 and 3, finishing with a Level 7. Attempt #2 saw me grappling with the same issue, as I again fell short in Level 1 Sufficiency, walking away with Level 2 this time after using Densmore’s resources. And now, as I gear up for Attempt #3, I’m filled with uncertainty about what’s to come.

Part of me is eager to put this chapter behind me—pass or fail. I’m ready to reclaim my life. Once this attempt is behind me, I plan to purge my notes and books, moving forward without looking back. However, I’m acutely aware that if I falter again, it will sting. The fear of judgment from friends and family weighs on me, but in time, I know I’d come to terms with it. After all, the world extends beyond the CPA designation; there are alternatives like pursuing an MBA or diving into a new field altogether.

Honestly, my interest in Accounting has waned. It’s not a passion for me; I merely tolerate the work, which often feels mundane and tedious. If I were to pass this time, I would undoubtedly feel a sense of pride and accomplishment, but mainly, it would prove to myself that I could overcome this challenge. Yet, I can’t bring myself to highly regard the CPA designation. Its value, in my view, has diminished due to the changes and inconsistencies in its administration.

To me, earning a CPA feels like a necessary stepping stone, primarily aimed at securing a better-paying job rather than a genuine passion for the profession. My experiences thus far have led me to label the whole CPA Canada process as somewhat of a farce. The exam seems to emphasize an ability to take tests and spend money over truly preparing candidates for the reality of being a CPA.

As I sit here writing this, I’m not entirely sure where my thoughts are leading me. Perhaps it’s just a cathartic release before facing the exam. Whatever the outcome, I know that life will carry on.