Exam Security, an Apology, and the Ultimate 12 Week Study Plan
I have not devoted an episode to discussing Exam Security before, mainly because I hadn't really thought about the importance of stating the obvious. Until I was contacted by the California Architects Board... Podcast Episode 058. I received a call from the California Architects Board last week in regards to the Video Tip I released last week about immediate results (CAB has indicated that ALL candidates should be getting immediate results). In speaking with the woman from CAB, she also wanted to caution me about giving advice to candidates (who didn't pass) about writing everything down about the Exam once you [...]
Episode 57: On Top of the World (almost)! 5 Items to Gauge If You Are REALLY Determined to Pass [Podcast]
Last week, I was able to guide 3 newbies all the way to the top of Mt. Whitney 14,505', the tallest peak in the lower 48. Podcast Episode 057. I also discuss the 5 Items that you can use to gauge how determined you REALLY are in passing the Exam. The 5 items are; Begin with the end in mind - the importance of scheduling your Exam date Gather all of your study materials - I'm partial to the Ultimate Whole Enchilada ;) Commit to making studying a priority Create a Study Plan - 10 hours a week Develop a Positive [...]
Episode 56: 80 Hours on a Long and Windy Road to the CSE….and Mt. Whitney [Podcast]
80 Hours is the road to the CSE, and it's a windy road. Learning to drive, negotiate obstacles, and plan ahead is a key ingredient in achieving success. Podcast Episode 056. I explain why I believe you should put at least 80 hours into your study preparation. With about 1.5 to 2 hours per day, 10 hours a week, you can be ready to take the Exam in 2-3 months. I also explain the similarities between 80 hours of preparing for the CSE and the 80 hours involved in my upcoming trip to Mt. Whitney, the highest peak in the lower 48 [...]
Episode 55: Terri Is 5500 and You Will Be Soon Too! [Podcast]
Becoming 5500 is something we are all striving for in the process. If you're getting ready to take the Exam, you are one step closer to reaching 5500. Podcast Episode 055. The CSEprep Forum is launched! This fantastic resource has grown out of CSE Mastermind and is available as a FREE BONUS to candidates who have purchased the Ultimate Whole Enchilada or attended a LIVE! Seminar. I also discuss the benefits associated with interacting with your peers during this process. Caroline was one of my CSE Mastermind students and she sends in her success story and also gives some VERY [...]
Episode 54: How I Passed the CSE On My First Try! [Podcast]
Passing the California Supplemental Exam is an accomplishment in and of itself. But passing it on your first attempt is even more difficult, and some will argue, more rewarding (although my goal is to help you pass, no matter how long it takes). Podcast Episode 054. I am pleased to bring you a very special interview with Jody, a candidate who recently passed the Exam on her first try and we discuss her strategies and test taking tips. This is one of the most important podcasts I have recorded to date. This is a MUST listen to episode. Strategies that [...]
Episode 53: Asking For Help and a Sinking Building [Podcast]
Asking for help can be one of the most difficult things we do as human beings. Many like to think we can handles things ourselves, that we can do it with little or no help from others. I disagree. Podcast Episode 053. I discuss the benefits of asking those closest to you for help during the preparation part of the Exam including reaching out to family members to help you better focus during your studies. A new visitor center in Louisiana is sinking in the swamp, only 30 days before the scheduled opening. This is the kind of story that [...]
Episode 52: Knowledge Is Not Enough, You Need Wisdom to Pass the Exam [Podcast]
Knowledge is important for the California Supplemental Exam as well as achieving success in life. But knowledge isn't necessarily the most important thing. It is knowing how to apply that knowledge come Exam day, in the form of Wisdom. Podcast Episode 052. I discuss why just being familiar with the 55 Knowledge Statements of the California Architects Board Test Plan is not enough. I mention Dave Ramsey, a get out of debt, manage your finances guru, check out his website, DaveRamsey.com. I mention Dan Miller, a career strategist and author of 48 Days to the Work You Love, check out his [...]
Episode 51: Immediate Results: Fact or Fiction and Success Stories [Podcast]
We like instant gratification, immediate results. We don't like to wait. We want a faster internet connection so we can do our work faster. And the California Architects Board has taken a step further in satisfying our appetite for all things fast and instantaneous. Podcast Episode 051. Yes, Immediate Results are here and I think this is a win-win for everyone involved, including those who receive the dreaded non-passing letter. Chris makes a great post on the AREforum.org. Pat sends in a great story about her experience with immediate results. C.A. sends in some tips for taking the exam and [...]
Episode 50: We Celebrate our 50th Episode, Humidity in the Desert and More! [Podcast]
Turning 50 is a big deal. Today, I release my 50th episode of the California Supplemental Exam Podcast and I'm very proud of being able to put out 50 episodes and let's raise a glass to 150 more! Podcast Episode 050. We celebrate our 50th eposide! Karen sends in 2 questions from OMCES relating to humidity in the desert and building in a flood prone area. Nick sends in a question about focusing on stakeholders at the National level. Sarah sends in a question about stamping signing drawings for exempt projects even after we are licensed. Also check out CAB's Spring [...]
Episode 49: Natedawg Needs Advice, Confusion Between OSHPD and DSA Accessibility Plan Check [Podcast]
Wrapping your head around the amount of material that is part of the California Architects Board Reference List of materials is a daunting task and has been known to cause more than a few headaches. Podcast Episode 049. I discuss a recent email conversation I had with "Natedawg", a candidate needing help getting his head "wrapped around the material" after two unsuccessful attempts. Natedawg's approach seemed scattered to me and lacked a solid foundation. I explain the importance of establishing a solid foundation and finding a strategy that will allow for repetition, repetition, repetition and also instill confidence on Exam day. [...]
Episode 48: Audience Questions about Responsible Control, Practice Act, Paying for Inspections [Podcast]
The Architects Practice Act is published by the California Architects Board and is a major component to understand when preparing for the California Supplemental Exam. Podcast Episode 048. I discuss an IMPORTANT update about new information in regard to the Statistical Analysis. Sharie sends in a question about the Practice Act and projects for when a licensed architect is not required. Reuben sends in a question about the Federal Coastal Zone Management Act and also the Dept. of Water Resources and State Water Resources Control Board. Kevin sends in a question about paying for inspections and the comparison of B201 [...]
Episode 46: Success Story: I passed the CSE On My 2nd Try! [Podcast]
Listening to success stories of others is both inspiring and motivational. I plan on brining more success story interviews to the California Supplemental Exam Podcast in the future. Podcast Episode 046. In this very special episode, I interview Aubrey who recently passed the Exam on her second try. She has a great story and we discuss the mindset necessary for Exam day. We also discuss where she felt she missed the mark and what she did better the second time around to help her prepare. Click to Listen Please Subscribe Receive automatic updates when you subscribe below! Click [...]