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 Blair Valdiviseo, CDFA, Operations Manager with VIA design architects, pc in Norfolk, VA.

What motivated you to earn your CDFA certification?

I was motivated to earn my CDFA certification because I want to be more validated and respected in the industry and by my peers. I wanted to challenge myself as well!

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

I hold “bad-test-taker” against myself, so I knew I had to prepare well in order to perform well on the CDFA exam.

What study tools did you find most useful?

CDFA-yoU, practice questions, and printing out the materials. I printed out all of the category-specific sections into one bound document. I broke up each section and only focused on one at a time. I took the practice questions multiple times and continued to check my progress by how many I answered correctly per section. I tried my best to corelate exam materials to real-life-experiences in my role.

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

Yes! The IT section was very interesting, because I am assisting with a lot of IT focused goals right now. I felt I learned the most from that section. The Project Management section was also interesting, and I feel that I can share that new knowledge with my peers at work to help the improve their own processes and tactics.

What section of the exam was the most difficult for you?

I did the most poorly on the Marketing section, but that is the least of my day-to-day responsibility, so it makes sense that I had the least amount of practical experience to relate to the material.

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

So far, the designation has really only bolstered me at my firm, but I am excited to get more involved with my local SDA chapter and continue learning from others and building my network.

Was your employer supportive of your CDFA goals and accomplishment?

Yes! A social media post regarding my accomplishment, internal announcement, and I received a bonus for my achievement.

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

Prepare well by really getting an understanding of the materials included, relate as much as you can to rea-world experiences, and do the practice questions A LOT!

What has obtaining your CDFA meant to you?

Earning the credential, and also only missing 10 questions on the exam, has shown me that even in a busy, fast-paced phase of life, I can focus on something and put the effort and dedication into it that will result in POSITIVE experiences and results in the end. If you put your mind to it…it can happen.