My CAP journey will linger in the faucet of my mind for a very long time, as this was an unforgettable experience. I had absolutely no idea what was ahead, but I was determined to take a leap of faith and travel along. The journey was challenging but fulfilling I was able to improve on all my administrative skills, learned new ones and built numerous relationships. Each stage in my preparation was different and rewarding. There was something to learn from each domain and skills to hone as an administrative professional for a lifetime. I must admit, there were numerous obstacles and roadblocks that ranged from work, family, friends, external demands, and personal responsibilities; but I was determined never to give up. The content to read in the domains were overwhelming but I kept encouraging myself and even though I was behind in my readings I told myself I would catch up and overcome this hurdle.
I successfully implemented strategies to assist me in overcoming these challenges and thank God, I was able to conquer them all. Some of my successful strategies were attending all sessions of my study group, complete all assignments given, listening to recordings, printing and reading information in small manageable portions, making notes and managing my time so that I could complete my day‑to‑day tasks. I created visual and memorable tools to internalize what I learned through writing and practicing constantly.
I failed my both attempts on the IAAP practice exam and two of the practice quizzes from my study group. I was timed-out on the first half of the exam and did not answer all the questions; but I embraced the fact that it was a successful milestone to be able to sit the exam and finished the second half with time to review. After the exam I was exhausted, and I then realized all the far-reaching time and effort I had sacrificed for this exam was a blessing; and thought to myself all was not lost. It was worth all my time because of the knowledge I had gained during this thorough preparation for the CAP exam.
I did not think I had passed but I was prepared to do whatever was necessary to gain this designation, I had started on the road and I had no intention of changing my goals, success was my destination.
I was pleasantly surprised six weeks later; I had obtained my CAP designation. The resulting and rewarding feeling in that moment was indescribable, far-reaching and incomparable all the hard work, sleepless nights, and all-inclusive efforts were worthwhile. I will now continue along this self-developmental journey and complete additional courses to advance my career.
My encouragement to all the persons who want to be certified, do not give up, embrace your failures and obstacles and move on to your goal. Do not get discouraged, you can do this, with perseverance and persistence you can achieve your goal. Believe in yourself, there is absolutely nothing you cannot achieve if you stay positive and keep trying, hold on, do not give up, remember the proverb “if at first you don’t succeed, try, try, and try again. We all learn at different levels and in time your change will come, you too will celebrate, if you only believe in yourself and proceed. Thanks to all who supported me.