July 2017 Student of the Month: Julian L Gallegos

Why did you take Roger CPA Review?

I chose Roger CPA review because it aligned with the teaching style that I learned best with in college. One of my most memorable college accounting professors would always have us do silly little songs with mnemonics or would make us participate in physical activities to help us remember concepts. This method was highly effective for me in my studies, and with Roger, it worked wonders once again. I really did my research, and I was drawn to Roger for his teaching style and the fact that it was the most financially feasible option that was out there for me. There were cheaper options and more expensive options, but I just felt Roger was the best I could get for what I was willing to spend, and it was. I passed all four tests on the first try and dodged the dreaded 2017 exam changes. Thank you Roger!

How did you hear about our review course?

I heard about this course through looking at CPA Review Course reviews on the internet. I remember stumbling upon a site that gave a brief description of each product that is out there. Roger just really stood out.

What was your favorite aspect of the course?

I really enjoyed the videos. Roger takes difficult concepts and really breaks them down to a level that nearly anyone can understand. He is an excellent teacher. I also really enjoyed the IPQ answer explanations. They really helped me understand the concepts.

How has passing the exam affected your personal and professional life?

Passing the CPA Exam has opened up a lot of doors for me. I am applying to new jobs, and I have noticed how much the interest level in calling me for interviews has increased. My co-workers and peers also think I am a genius. I am also one of very few people in my hometown to hold such a prestigious credential.

What piece of advice do you have for other CPA Exam candidates?

Put in the time!! When I first started this exam, I really would focus on putting in a certain number of hours of work per day. I soon realized that this was not the best idea, as I found myself burning out mentally. I changed my strategy to studying until my brain was tired, and that really seemed to help with remembering concepts. I would also recommend to anyone studying for this exam to build in a summary review day into every week of studying. Give yourself time to go back, review, and do problems from what you already learned so that you do not forget material from the beginning. Sleep is also really important during studying and in the days leading up to the exam. I also had a weird regimen of taking fish oil supplements the week leading up to the exam. I would eat a high protein breakfast on exam morning, and I would eat a chicken Cesar salad in the parking lot of the Prometric. To calm my pre-test jitters, I would shadow box in the bathroom of Prometric until I broke a sweat. Those are just some silly rituals that I had, but everything worked out!

Anything else you would like to share?

Roger has a gift that few people posses. I’m really glad that I used this review course. “I studied, I passed.”

Favorite quote?

"He offered his honor, and she honored his offer. From then on, it was offer and honor."