[IMGCAP(1)]Do you remember where you were when you passed the CPA exam? I do, and if I had to guess, you do too. This is a moment that a CPA doesn’t forget. It’s big; momentous!
Tom Hood, executive director of the Maryland Association of CPAs, recently posed this same question to a group of CPAs and aspiring CPAs at a large conference. I paused for a moment, thought about the question, and was then hit with head-to-toe chills. It was nearly 12 years ago, but I could still vividly recall the anxiety, fear and frustration that led up to learning my exam results. I also recalled the pure elation that came when I found out I had passed.
Today, I am a successful CPA with my own firm. I’ve worked hard to get where I am, and I appreciate how hard my successors will have to work to pass the exam and forge their own path in the accounting world.
It’s important that as a profession we support the next generation of accounting leaders…as well as show them that there is more to the profession than meets the eye (like having fun). Come on, we ARE a fun group!
After Tom’s presentation, during the event’s reception, came the debut of what I believe to be the first-ever flash mob made up of…what?...CPAs! Prior to the event, several others and myself received an email with a choreographed dance video attached. We were instructed to learn the moves in order to participate in the flash mob event.
At precisely 7:15 p.m. the music started and we danced in not-so-perfect harmony…but we danced nonetheless. (View the evidence for yourself
Jody L. Padar, CPA, MST, is a Certified Public Accountant experienced with Complex Federal & State Income Tax Compliance for Business & Individuals. Jody is an adjunct professor at Oakton Community College, where she teaches Taxation and QuickBooks Courses. She is part of Intuit Trainer Writer Network and speaks nationally on various Technologies and Taxation. She can be reached at
