[sbcheung]

Hi everyone,

I’m a non traditional CPA candidate (no public accounting experience nor accounting degree). I’m almost 30 and work as a financial analyst for a non profit. I became eligible to take the CPA exam when I graduated back in 2010 after taking enough accounting units at community colleges. I planned to take the CPA exam back then but things happened in life and I wasn’t serious enough. Knowing about the 2017 changes, I decided to study again last summer with the goal of passing at least one exam before the changes.

BEC: failed (Aug 2016)
FAR: failed (Feb 2017)
REG: failed (I just took this today and bombed it since I only had time to study about 40% of the material)

I have been studying using Wiley everyday since last summer. I feel very devastated and I’m ready to give up. For the past 2 failed exams (FAR & REG), I just stared at the screen without a clue and my brain was blank.

1. Is anyone in the same boat like I am with a non traditional background? I wanted the CPA because it’s a prestigious & well recognized title, and all businesses require the skills of a CPA. I understand my age may be a concern to get hired in public accounting, but I will be happy just working for non-public accounting firms (private firms, government, non-profit) as accountant/financial analyst.

2. If I pass the CPA exams by 31, what is my chance to get hired by public accounting firms given my age?

3. I struggle to give up everyday since I already devoted so much $ and time to this exam. I lost motivation to study and it’s so hard to persist.

Thank you all for your input.

DesperateDoubtfulCandidate

[Anonymous]

I had an interview at a Big 4 office a few years ago for a Senior position. It was a weird experience.

After two separate interviews with a Senior Manager and a Partner, I was shown around the office which looked more like a colorful high-tech adult daycare. It was strange to see the employees sitting in these glass room offices and conference rooms which resembled what reminded me of an exhibit at a zoo to be completely honest.

While walking around we approached the break area which was like a home kitchen style area. There was a tall male employee waiting there and I was introduced to him. His greeting was completely scripted and artificial which threw me off. Then as we continued the office tour I was introduced to another employee whose behavior seemed extremely scripted and artificial as well.

Were these people planned parts of the interview or was I randomly introduced to them? Were they judging/assessing how I behave and interact with the employees?

Well, I was offered the position, but ended up turning it down due to the cut salary offer. Thoughts?

[IcecreamF]

Im 28 and getting into it, however i look very young..

[Author]

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