90-Day CFE Exam Challenge Success Story: Garnal Brown
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As we all know, COVID-19 was an unforeseen force that altered the lives of millions globally, but rather than be dismayed by the circumstances surrounding the coronavirus, Garnal Brown, CFE, sought the silver lining behind the proverbial dark clouds. One of the many changes that the pandemic gave rise to was an increase in remote work, and Garnal decided that joining the previous 90-Day CFE Exam Challenge would be a productive use of time amid the unpredictable state of affairs.
Throughout the challenge, Garnal was actively engaged with her fellow challenge participants, providing a lot of support and encouragement. Since the start of the challenge, Garnal posted more than 140 times in the challenge group.
Her experiences working directly with Compliance Departments has enabled her to garner a wealth of knowledge within the financial services industry, specifically in the areas of prevention, deterrence and the detection of fraud. Here, Garnal shares her CFE journey with anyone who may be considering joining our next 90-Day CFE Exam Challenge.
Why did you join the 90-Day CFE Exam Challenge?
The opportunity to test my capacity against the stringent timeline of the 90-Day CFE Exam Challenge appealed most to me. I was equally intrigued by the structure of this program, which offered experienced facilitators and an assembly of diverse participants in the global fraud industry.
What did your study method look like?
Knowing that I learn best visually, I set forth with the task of reading the Fraud Examiners Manual in its entirety. Though strenuous, this method provided invaluable information that I am now able to extract and employ when required.
Additionally, I followed the recommendation to start with the Pre-Assessment included in the CFE Exam Prep Course. Then I commenced studying from subject areas of strength to weakness. On average, 14 days were dedicated to each section.
My study method also consisted of diligently working through the Review Questions and explanation segments for each section. I refused to proceed until an understanding of the study material for each section was thoroughly grasped. These strategic methods enabled me to identify areas that required more of my attention. I referred to the Fraud Examiners Manual when supplementary clarification was required, with this being the case for Law numerous times.
I repeated the processes consistently and utilized the Practice Exams as a benchmark to measure my progress after completing the Review Questions. Once I was able to constantly score 96% and above on the Practice Exams, I knew I was ready to take the real exam.
How did the challenge help you accomplish your goal of passing the CFE Exam?
There were two components of the challenge that proved to be advantageous in my pursuit of favorable examination results. They were, the challenge group in the ACFE Community and the monthly study guide calendars.
Despite the would-be geographical and time zone impediments, the stellar engagement of participants in the challenge group was tremendously beneficial. The constant exchange of study tips and words of encouragement fueled me with the resolve to persevere.
As an advocate for structured learning, the monthly study guides were a phenomenal asset in my 90-Day CFE Exam Challenge journey. The study guides provided timelines that were practical and achievable and became an indispensable tool.
What did it feel like when you got the email saying you'd passed? How did you celebrate?
I was thrilled the moment I discovered I had successfully passed the exam. I was engulfed with emotions of joy that left me speechless. After a few moments of embracing this blissful reality, I immediately contacted my assistant to thank and inform her that we were successful in our arduous endeavor.
Unfortunately, due to the restrictions of COVID-19, I have been unable to officially celebrate this milestone. However, once the pandemic is contained, my family has planned a festive occasion that I am ecstatic about.
What advice do you have for challenge participants who are preparing for the CFE Exam?
This is undoubtedly a challenge that requires endurance. For some participants, the road ahead will be overwhelming and seem quite difficult at times. I implore them not to give up. If you reach a roadblock in your studies, do not become frustrated. Instead, take a break and tackle them again from a different perspective. By actively engaging in the forum you can glean tremendous insights from fellow participants.
Finally, run your race, set your pace, dedicate the time needed to study and you will reap your ROI. Wishing you all the best on your CFE journey!
The 90-Day CFE Exam Challenge provides participants with study tips and peer support to help them stay motivated and on track to reach their goal of passing the CFE Exam. The upcoming challenge begins October 1 and ends on December 31.
