The QAFP Exam Award of Merit is in recognition of QAFP exam candidates who earn top scores on the QAFP exam. Faith Hakkarainen is a past recipient of the award. The following blog post, written by Faith, contains insights, strategies, and tips that may help you succeed if you decide to write the QAFP exam.
Faith Hakkarainen is Associate Advisor with IGL Financial Services Group. She previously served as an avionics technician in the air force. While she enjoyed fixing the electrical and computer systems in helicopters, she ultimately decided to pursue additional education, which led her to finance.
I finished my Bachelor of Business Administration to become an accountant. I began working for one of the big four accounting firms and then for the federal government. I still felt like something was missing. The feeling led me to financial planning, which allowed me to combine my nerdish abilities with numbers and my love for helping people.
Making the Most of an Opportunity
I love educating people and helping them reach their goals. In someone’s journey to financial well-being, there are so many firsts. It’s nice to be there for those moments. One of the best moments is when a client who’s been retired for a few years realizes they have nothing to fear, as long as they stick with the plan.
Recently, I decided to start pursuing QAFP certification, which felt like a natural progression. It was the next step in my education and an opportunity to bond with like-minded people. I have several colleagues who have earned their QAFP certification, and it helped them immensely with their practice.
A Word of Advice on Getting Started
If you’re trying to break into the field, start by educating yourself—and not just on numbers and calculations. Comprehending behavioural finance is key. You should also have an emergency fund, because it’s not always easy in the beginning (plus, you should practice what you preach). Last but not least, surround yourself with supportive people who want to see you succeed.
When you’re looking for your first job, start by researching where you’re thinking of applying. If you’re young, don’t be afraid to take an administrative position at an organization you’re interested in first. Sometimes, that’s the best way to learn what happens behind the scenes. You’ll also gain valuable knowledge about working in the profession. Consider contacting someone in a role that interests you. See if you can take them out for lunch or for a coffee to pick their brain about their role.
Tips for Writing the QAFP Exam
If you’re planning to write the QAFP exam, here are some insights to help:
- Take the Plunge - There may never be a perfect time to take the exam. As a mother of three who works full time and helps care for ailing family members, there was no ideal time. You just have to take a leap of faith and dive in.
- Make Use of Helpful Tools – While studying, I used every tool available. I found FP Canada's free questions and practice exam to be extremely helpful. I also tested myself using these resources.
- Keep Practicing - I reread all the material in the program and practiced a lot of the calculations that require the business calculator. Going over the questions and answers can help clarify any concepts you may be having issues with. It shows you need to take your time and not rush through the questions.
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.
