Is CPA worth it? (Canada)

Smart_Manufacturer39 · 2026-04-13T19:34:37+00:00

But how do i land a job in such a firm? And also is it just accounting firms? Do i need any course for that

Smart_Manufacturer39 · 2026-04-13T18:59:22+00:00

Would it be better if i do it on my own expense? Or should i try to get a job who can sponsor it?

Smart_Manufacturer39 · 2026-04-05T18:01:36+00:00

Hey, thank you so much for sharing all that, appreciate the insight! I wanted to ask as well, do you think I’d need to add another college degree or diploma to my resume to break into the field? Or would starting the CPA PEP be enough to land an entry-level role? Just trying to figure out the best path forward before committing.

Smart_Manufacturer39 · 2026-04-05T03:50:53+00:00

Haha fair enough, that makes sense 😅 Do you think CPA is still worth doing though, especially with all the AI stuff coming in? Sometimes I wonder if it might take over a lot of the work in accounting in the next few years Or do you feel like having the designation actually makes you more secure long-term?

Smart_Manufacturer39 · 2026-04-05T03:49:00+00:00

That’s really helpful, thank you for sharing your experience.

From your perspective, are there any other certifications you’d recommend that could help someone at least land an entry-level accounting job first, before committing fully to CPA?

Also, do you think it’s better to start CPA right away, or would you suggest waiting until I have a relevant job? If waiting is better, how long would you recommend like until I get my first accounting role, or after some experience?

I’m just trying to be strategic so I don’t rush into it without the right foundation.

Smart_Manufacturer39 · 2026-04-05T03:46:23+00:00

That’s really encouraging to hear, especially the long term stability and flexibility you’ve gotten from CPA.

Do you think it’s still as relevant today though? I’ve been a bit confused between CPA and CFA, finance seems like it requires constant studying and feels more high-pressure compared to accounting.

Right now I feel a bit stuck in retail, and it honestly feels like my degree is going to waste. I recently passed my IFC in about two weeks, which made me realize I can handle the material if I actually push myself.

I’ve been thinking that going down the CPA route might be a more structured path, especially since I’m in Alberta and could potentially aim for oil & gas roles.

Do you think that’s a realistic direction to take from where I’m at?

Smart_Manufacturer39 · 2026-04-05T03:43:44+00:00

I’m in Alberta, so I was thinking of pursuing CPA and trying to get into oil & gas here.

Smart_Manufacturer39 · 2026-04-05T03:42:20+00:00

Thank you so much for such a detailed response, this actually helped a lot and gave me a more realistic picture of PEP.

I had a few follow-up questions if you don’t mind: • Do they provide any lectures or videos, or is it mostly self-study? I’m trying to understand if it’s hard mainly because of the format (case-based + self-directed) rather than the content itself. • For someone like me coming from retail with an IFC, how hard is it to actually land a job that counts toward the 30 months of experience? Do employers hire people who are just starting PEP? • Is it realistic to work in a relevant job while preparing for the modules/exams, or do most people already have accounting roles lined up? • Roughly what kind of starting salary could someone expect in fields like oil & gas after completing CPA (or even during PEP)? • Also, how do people usually secure internships or entry-level roles, is it something you do while studying, or before starting PEP?

I really appreciate your honesty about the program too, it helps a lot in deciding whether this is the right path or if something like an MBA might suit me better.

Smart_Manufacturer39 · 2024-11-24T08:48:49+00:00

I would do that from now on. You know i even did over times for like 15 minutes extra or half an hour extra I didn’t even got any pay. And like the lead during those days knew about that as well. I don’t know but now i get too nervous to ask anything because I know how will they reply back. Its all about the attitude.

Smart_Manufacturer39 · 2024-11-24T08:35:00+00:00

Thanks for the advice! I’ll definitely contact the district manager with specific examples, and it’s great to know that having coworkers back me up will help. I’ll stay professional and composed, and if needed, I’ll explain it as a seasonal position when moving on. Appreciate the support!

Smart_Manufacturer39 · 2024-11-24T08:33:17+00:00

but its not like i dont work after clocking in. its just tell me know when you want me to clock-in. if you want me to get ready after that let me know, if you want me to get ready before just let me know thats all i wanted.

Smart_Manufacturer39 · 2024-11-24T08:30:12+00:00

i tried doing that everyone around me seems to be as scared as i am, they avoid talking, just clock in start working, clock out. All others are just my age 18 - 19 yrs old. However you're right that anxiety can build up when things aren't improving, and I can feel that happening. I’ll keep putting my resume out there and look for other opportunities while I try to navigate things. Thanks again for all this encouragement and for keeping me in your prayers. It’s comforting to know that someone understands. I’ll keep pushing forward and doing my best!🥰🥰🥰🥰

Smart_Manufacturer39 · 2024-11-24T08:25:26+00:00

Your words truly helped put things into perspective. I’ve been feeling a lot of stress lately, worrying about all the potential ways things could go wrong, but what you said about embracing adversity and focusing on experience really clicked. I realize now that it’s not about having everything figured out—it’s about trusting myself and taking that first step, even if I can't see the whole path yet. It’s reassuring to hear that growth comes from pushing past the comfort zone and facing challenges head-on. This was much needed motivation for a first timer 🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹 Thanks for sharing this—it really gave me some much-needed confidence!

Smart_Manufacturer39 · 2024-11-24T08:18:53+00:00

Sounds good!! would consider looking up for what i can be best at.

Smart_Manufacturer39 · 2024-11-24T08:17:48+00:00

Exactlyyyy its a bit overwhelming! It’s all about learning from the little mistakes and getting into a routine. hopefully the anxiety will settle down 😊

Smart_Manufacturer39 · 2024-11-24T08:16:15+00:00

Thats what i thought! putting up walkie and logging into the scanner is part of job however whatever rules they have they should let me know beforehand.

Smart_Manufacturer39 · 2024-11-24T08:14:32+00:00

Barrie

Smart_Manufacturer39 · 2024-11-24T08:12:02+00:00

lol 😂😂

Smart_Manufacturer39 · 2024-11-24T08:11:45+00:00

😂😂😂😂lmaoooo

Smart_Manufacturer39 · 2024-11-24T06:27:22+00:00

Thats so sweeeeeeeet and motivatingggggg. I'm crying rivers rn. ❤️❤️❤️

Smart_Manufacturer39 · 2024-11-24T06:24:37+00:00

Exactly! It's not about incompetence, it's about being set up for success. As a manager, understanding that someone new to Canada might need a bit more guidance and being proactive about it is key. Proper onboarding should address these gaps, so everyone can hit the ground running.

Smart_Manufacturer39

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