We've been busy interviewing some of our members who have recently accomplished their CDFA designation by passing the Certified Design Firm Administrator exam. This week we'll hear from Chrisandrea Clark, CDFA, Human Resources Manager with dtj Design in Denver, CO.

What motivated you to earn your CDFA certification?

Being in the A/E industry for over 15 years, I desired a way to be able to show my expertise as a Designer Firm Administrator.

Did you have any concerns, or fears, about taking the exam?

I was pretty nervous about taking the exam since I hadn’t had to take an exam like this since college.

What study tools did you find most useful?

CDFA-yoU and self-studying proved very helpful in preparing for the exam!

Did you learn anything new, or surprising, while preparing for the exam?

There are quite a few things that I learned in the areas I don’t touch on as much on a daily basis.

Did you have a CDFA mentor help you with the material? If so, tell us about that experience.

No, I mostly self-studied. I had plenty of encouragement from my supervisor and others in my local SDA chapter.

What role, if any, has your CDFA played in advancing your professional or personal development, growth, network, or career?

With my CDFA I have been provided the opportunity to work in roles that touch in all the major areas that the exam covered, from Project and Administrative Management to HR leadership . I feel qualified and well-equipped to handle any role in the A/E industry as a Certified Design Firm Administrator.

What is your top tip to someone considering the pursuit of a CDFA designation?

Just do it! Don’t procrastinate and delay applying to sit for it once eligible. Set the date and begin studying as soon as possible!

What has obtaining your CDFA meant to you?

Personally, it means a sense of accomplishment. I set out to show my advanced knowledge of being an administrator in our industry and it has been looked upon very highly amongst leadership firms I’ve worked with.