Hi Everyone -

I live in Anchorage, Alaska and support both the Board of Directors and the CEO of a local, large corporation. I love my job and all the different subject matter that I am exposed to - from commercial real estate investments, energy development, banking and securities regulations, compliance and ethics... the list goes on and on. It is the day to day variety that keeps me on my toes and keeps me engaged. COVID has not changed that, although I don't feel quite as motivated sitting at my dining room table. Such is life.

I never thought I would spend July 4th weekend catching up on Domain 1, 2 and 3 readings to prepare for the CAP exam, but that's what I did! I am taking Marie Herman's course, but I joined it late and have a mountain of information to climb to catch up. Her additional readings really supplement the topics that the study guide touches on, and helps put the items in the study guide into context. I am glad I signed up for her course.

After I pass my CAP exam, there are several more courses I want to take. In fact, I want to take them now, but between work and all the CAP readings, I think I need to pace myself. As Marie frequently likes to say, "Patience, grasshopper!"

When I am not studying, I like to travel (but that's out of the picture for the foreseeable future), quilt (I have switched to mask making this spring, in order to "do my part") and enjoy the beautiful Alaskan scenery. I look forward to seeing posts from all the other CAP Fall 2020 test takers, and best of luck to all of us!

Rachel Batres

Thanks for sharing your story. Best of luck in your certification endeavors.

I LOVE Alaska! Lived there a number of years and so enjoyed the "last frontier" and the ruggedness of the outdoors. Congratulations on your motivation to move forward with your certification! 

Best wishes on your CAP certification journey!

Congratulations on taking this next step in your personal and professional development. I think this is a perfect time to study for the CAP exam, so many fewer distractions. I too am sewing fabric face masks right now. We were set to visit your beautiful state in June, but our trip was cancelled due to COVID-19. Best wishes with your studies!

Hi Ms. Batres!

I'm also in Anchorage and am the Director for the Alaska chapter of the IAAP. Our branch is currently on summer break right now but we'll start having monthly meetings in August. I hope you will be able to join us. Good luck on your CAP exam and feel free to reach out if you want to connect. My email address is rjcalkins@alaska.edu and you can follow the Alaska Branch on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/IAAPAlaska.

Cheers!

Welcome Rachel! Best wishes on your CAP exam. It is well worth the time and effort! Rhiannon Calkins puts on some great events in Anchorage! I have been fortunate to attend a program as well as attend a C&C event at a local hotel that included a tour. Reach out if you need assistance, we have all felt the challenge of remaining focused to study for this challenging exam. Marie is a great teacher. No doubt you will be successful!

I am also located in Anchorage and love this great state of ours. Best of luck on your CAP exam in the fall. It sounds like you are on the right path with the studying and resources you are using. I am betting you will ACE the exam!