[julia_z]

Hi guys.

I have a few questions to those of us who already passed all sections: 1. how did passing the last section feel? 2. Since you passed the CPA do you receive more benefits/pay at work and more importantly, do you feel more confident or/and competent in the workplace? 3. do people (boss/colleagues/peers) treat you with more respect at work now that you are a CPA?

Overall, how did your worklife improve because you passed the CPA exam? I know that the designation will probably bring more LT benefits than ST but i am just wondering.

BEC - 78
AUD - 78
FAR - 86
REG - 02/29/2012
NY Candidate

[rshaf]

I feel the exact same way as soonerorlater.

I was never expecting a raise or promotion; I just wanted to feel more confident and competent at my workplace. My co-workers were really supportive and really happy for me once I passed. Some of them had their CPA and others did not. Everyone who had their CPA has said that they are so glad that they do not have to go through this process again.

As soonerorlater said, it is almost like insurance for your career. I feel as a CPA, you are much more likely to be qualified for other positions and opportunities versus those who do not. I haven't reaped any tangible financial benefits in the short term, but I feel as though I will in the longer term.

My quality of life has infinitely improved. I am much less stressed and I feel like I am now a better father and husband again, since I don’t need to ignore them so much while studying.

My wife, kids and parents were really proud of me, as they knew how hard I worked and how difficult the exam is.

Good luck and do not give up! It is so worth it, once you cross the finish line! I swear… even food tastes better now!

BEC- 76 (08/10)- PASS
AUD- 85 (11/10)- PASS
REG- 71 (02/11), 81 (04/11)- PASS
FAR- 73 (05/11), 74 (08/11), 79 (11/11)- PASS

[Anonymous]

My worklife hasn't changed except when my clients ask me, “Are you still taking the CPA exam?”, I don't have to hang my head in shame and mumble “Yeah…”

Now when they ask me I grin like the cat that ate the canary and say, “I'm finally done!”. It still seems surreal.

Before I even began the journey I didn't think I was smart enough to pass. There were times when I came extremely close to quitting but I'm so glad I didn't. It made me realize I am stronger than I ever imagined. It really boosted my confidence, which my children can see.

[Anonymous]

@ julia

First…passing the final section was like having a massive weight lifted off of your shoulders. I saw my FAR score and was jumping around my house like a fool yelling “I'M GONNA BE A CPA!!” It ranked up there with the birth of my daughter and graduating college (first in my family to do that!) as one of the proudest days of my life.

Second…I definitely feel more confidence in my ability at work. Although it seems much less important to those around me, I still know what I accomplished and I'm damn proud of it. But I get the feeling as long as I'm there I'll just be “duker in Accounting.” Money wise I haven't seen any changes, but figured that I wouldn't anyway…I always knew that once I got my CPA it would be time to move on.

Last…I'm not officially licensed yet (next month!) but after the usual congratulations and pats on the back things aren't really any different at work, and I don't know that having an actual license will change things either…like I said I'm just “duker in Accounting” to most people. But with a CPA the sky is the limit…it doesn't matter what others think, those three letters prove that you are an expert and that you are worthy of respect. Good luck on the rest of your exam, and to all the new members of the Alumni Lounge congratulations and welcome!! 😀

[makinthemagic]

Nope. My life still sucks.

Bec 4/11/11 91
Aud 7/11/11 75
Reg 8/31/11 80
Far 5/24/11 86
Ethics - 98
California Licensed CPA
Illinois Registered CPA

[Author]

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