[Earla Riopel (NYCARE)]

I am probably the oldest US CPA Candidate in this forum. I have taken too many exams in the last two decades, since paper forms in the late 90s. The same year my third and youngest child was born.

He’s 19 years old now. Thankfully, he got into computer programming, great in coding and not to worry about getting a designation in order to get certified with his profession.

Anyway, my coming 4 exams will determine if I will keep pursuing the US CPA designation or not. Lately, my interest has been shifted into areas of personal financial planning, tax savings, retirement, investing and wealth management.

Studying for my CPA exams has always been there to keep up to date with the accounting industry. However, lately, with the time and costs, and changes with the deductibility of tuition fees, I might have to opt out on taking the route of US CPA designation, in order to secure a personal financial planning credential, https://www.aicpa.org/InterestAreas/PersonalFinancialPlanning/Pages/default.aspx
Instead, just go straight to: https://www.cifp.ca/Desktop/English/General/Home.asp

I always like a ‘good challenge’, but I think 2017 is my deciding year. Defending on the toughness of the Q3 exams, it will determine the end of my ‘craziness’ in getting the US CPA accounting designation.

My apology for ranting about my accounting career, I am just tired. Receiving my undergrad at 19, and writing US CPA exams as many years as my youngest son’s age can really wear you down.

Lastly, any last minute advice on dealing with time management during the exam? Any advice is greatly appreciated. Thanks.

[Anonymous]

@Earla

Since you wanted this for some time, why not take a stab at the new exams? What have been the major roadblocks preventing you from getting certified?

Accounting and finance credentials outside of the CPA are primarily used as buffers so that's something to consider.

There are many people on this forum that have come and gone being in similar predicaments. You should have plenty of support here. What study materials are you using?

[Earla Riopel (NYCARE)]

@Almond Thanks for the encouragement and the kind words. Took AUD (Aug 22, 2017). It wasn't so bad. My husband (@AlbertRiopel) needed a vacation, so I took my exams in time of his 2-3 weeks off.

As to roadblocks, I am not sure. Maybe being an international CPA candidate or getting more unlucky CPA exam results, than lucky ones every CPA Exams.

Of course, I am always grateful of being qualified to write each year, especially during our annual vacation.

My CPA review materials? I am currently using Ninja Notes/Updates (2014-March 2017); Becker CPA complete set (2000/2008/2010/2015) & a little of Wiley CPA full texts/notes (1998 -2014).

[Author]

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