[Bryan]

Hello, fairly new here, but given my recent performance on my first two CPA exams; I feel the need to ask for guidance or even just comfort that there is light in all of this in the future.

Background information:
-I graduated in December of 2018 with 150 units and with a BS in Accounting.
-I accepted a full-time position as an audit associate for a Big Four firm; will be starting in September.
-I did not take any jobs in the meantime to focus on my studies as I had enough saved up from my previous job while working in college to keep me stable until September.
-Entered into my first serious relationship in January 2019.

My main source of anxiety is that from December to now I have taken FAR first (Score of 72) then AUD (Score of 67), and currently studying for BEC as I paid to sit for all exams by the end of the year. I will be starting my career soon at a Big Four firm and I have nothing to show for the time period of December 2018-September 2019. Like what if they ask what I have done throughout that period? What do I even say to not make me look bad? Also, I do not want to tell my loved ones I failed again when they ask… Anyways, thank you for reading this far and for your help!

[nmj012]

I am in the same boat, I start in October and haven't passed any yet. So I can't offer you much advice but I can say that it's going to be okay. From what I've heard many people start their full-time jobs not having any of them passed, unless it was in your offer letter that you had to have a certain number passed before you started it should be fine and I am sure that there will be other people starting with you that are in a similar situation.

All you can do now is push forward and use the tests you've taken as a learning opportunity. Your loved ones are your loved ones for a reason- they will be there no matter what your score is. Take some time to breathe if your study schedule allows it, it will help put things into perspective. These tests tend to take over our lives and while they are important to our careers, they don't define our worth in the grand scheme of things. I guarantee that those who care about you don't see you not passing as bad as you see it.

Keep your head up, you can do it!

[Bryan]

@Nmj012 Thank you for what you just said, like that helped me calm myself down and put all of this within reasonable means. I hope the same for you that you will continue to keep your head up and down the line, be a CPA!

[Jonah]

I am starting at a Big 4 in a week (yikes) and I thought I would have taken all 4 and be done, I've taken two. I graduated in May 2019 and am in a really similar position. I think it is more than likely that nobody at the firm will ask too many questions about the CPA unless your employment is somehow contingent upon passing (which I doubt, mine isn't).
More than likely, you will tell them you're studying for the CPA and they will look at you with a pitying glance and say good luck! I've had everyone be really kind with me from my firm regarding the CPA, they are very encouraging and understanding and I am sure that yours will be similar. Some people pass the exam in 6 months, but they give you 18 for a reason! It is a marathon, not a sprint, and it will feel so good when you're done. You've got this!

[alex260605]

You don't need to tell them anything beyond “I'm working on it.”

The CPA journey is a difficult one, and not everyone needs to know about your highs or lows, passes or fails. Also, there is no shame in failing 1, or 2, or even 3 exams.

It's only a shame when someone gives up. Never stop. Keep at it and you'll get there eventually.

[TheeAccountant]

You know what old CPAs say that the acronym CPA stands for right? C.P.A. = Couldn't Pass Again. Everyone knows it's hard, as long as you're working at it and not slacking, no one is going to be down on you about it. You're obviously good if one of the big 4 offered you a position. You likely just need to study your weak points (they give you a score report) and you'll pass when you try again.

[AGI]

Hi Bryan, I've never worked in the Big 4 but I feel like you are probably over worried. Here's my experience as a manager:
People generally ask these questions as ice breakers and they just mean to say “HI!” You do not have to let them know about your tests, and you can mention anything from “went on vacation”, “helping my elderly grandma”, “trying to get my girlfriend to marry me”, etc. If you did mention you were going to take a test during the interview back then, they might follow up with you to see your progress just to get an updated. Unless you promised you will pass before September (AND is on your employment contract), else there's nothing to worry about. I am sorry to say, but HR doesn't ever want you to pass your test, your job doesn't require a CPA. If you have a CPA, they need to PAY YOU MORE. Plus, if you got a CPA, they know you might run away soon. Finally, getting a CPA adds in points to potential promotion, but nope it doesn't mean anything. Just chill~~

I was rejected from Big 4 twice because I was not a freshly graduate. I have too much skills and show eager to advance in my career. They didn't like that and they want mostly new blood so they can control them. Sometimes it's better if you go in knowing nothing (or show nothing).

New York - NYC
Passed CPA Exam (11/2014)
In search for a position in NYC that will fulfills the license requirement.

[Author]

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