The President’s List is in recognition of the CFP exam candidates who earned the three highest scores on any given sitting of the exam. Mackenzie Stuart, CFP, has earned the award. The following blog post, written by Mackenzie, contains insights, strategies, and tips that may help you succeed if you decide to write the CFP exam.
Mackenzie Stuart is Managing Director at We Listen — Financial Planning Solutions Inc. Growing up, financial services always felt like the right path for her. She worked with her father, a financial advisor, when she was just fourteen years old. Later, she pursued an education that would allow her to follow her passion.
I obtained an advanced diploma in financial planning before starting my career as a financial advisor, then went on to study part-time to obtain my BBA degree. I’ve maintained a lifelong-learning mindset, taking various courses and obtaining additional certificates over time.
A Rewarding Career Path
What I find most fulfilling about my role as a financial planner is the opportunity to guide individuals who are navigating complex financial situations and motivate them to pursue their goals. Each client comes to me with their own unique set of circumstances, along with their own personal accomplishments and challenges.
As a financial planner, I’m able to help by providing clarity and assisting clients in identifying the next steps they should take to start achieving their financial goals. It’s truly rewarding to provide clients with a feeling of security; they know their financial planner is looking out for their best interests and making sure they stay on track.
CFP Certification Made Sense
After working as a financial advisor for a few years and completing my business degree, obtaining Certified Financial Planner® certification was a natural next step. The decision to pursue certification ultimately stemmed from my commitment to serving clients at the highest level of proficiency.
I feel that CFP certification is the most widely recognized and prestigious certification in the field of financial planning. Having it enhances my credibility and instills confidence in my clients.
Tips for Writing the CFP Exam
Based on my experience, here are a few strategies to keep in mind as you prepare for the exam.
- Start Early — My biggest piece of advice would be to start preparing as early as possible. The exam is challenging, and it covers a vast array of topics. It’s going to take a lot of time to fully grasp them all.
- Don’t Get Stuck — If you come to a question you’re not sure about, simply move on to the next one and circle back later. Each two-hour session flies by when you’re working through complex problems, so it’s important to manage your time well.
- Try Active Learning — I find that the active learning technique of summarizing and teaching material is the best way to fully comprehend what you’re learning. The process of breaking down complex financial topics and explaining them to others in a way that someone without financial knowledge can understand may very helpful.
Looking to take your exam prep to the next level? FP Canada has a variety of tools and resources, such as practice exams, that let you experience what it’s like to take the exam. Visit the exam tools section of our website to learn more.
