While it certainly may feel like your entire existence is engulfed by this test for six months out of the year, it is naïve to think that the rest of the world cares or it will place itself on pause until you are less busy studying.

Many of the CFA charterholders and candidates I have met seem to have always known that it was the path they wanted to take. Finance degree, CFA charter, job at a bigtime investment firm. It was different for me.

I’d like to share some mindset hacks helpful in passing the CFA exams, along with some pointers on how to approach this daunting and rewarding experience. As a charterholder myself,  I’ve had the privilege of mentoring candidates through all three levels, and I hope this helps you in your studies.

From humble origins in the early 1970s, index investing has become the 800-pound gorilla of investments. First derided, then accepted as a technique, these days, money moves out of active equity management and into passive vehicles every day.

Considering the CFA charter? Wondering whether you should get an MBA or a CFA charter (or both)? Trying to decide your career path in the world of finance given changing industry trends and the rise of FinTech?