Dan Vo is one of the Institute's best candidates undergoing the Chartered Accountants Program. Find out what is his philosophy that has set him up for achieving distinctions in all of his subjects. Learn from someone who has been to university and is now undergoing the Program.

1. Describe what you do in a typical week?

Aside from work and study, I try to catch up with friends and family which probably doesn't sound too fascinating, but I find that it keeps me grounded and allows me to unwind.   

2. How do you plan the semester leading up to your exam? 

To be honest, I'm not all that organised!  It's pretty important for me to make sure that I understand all of the concepts and research those areas that I find I am lacking in and I do try to do this sooner rather than later as it will ultimately pay-off at exam time.  I also try to minimise any possible distractions in order to be able to focus on the module at hand (I've actually delayed the purchase of a Playstation 3 for the last 6 months!).   

3. What tools do you have to help you study and plan your study? 

I have a dedicated study area at home that I have set up to allow me to focus and concentrate. I think this is important and has really helped me with my studies.  There really isn't much formal planning, but I do cognitively set time allocations and milestones which I try to keep to. This rarely works, so the over-arching principle is 'study when you can, where you can'. 

4. What do you enjoy most about the Chartered Accountants Program experience? 

It has provided me with an invaluable grounding on which to base the rest of my career.  The technical knowledge and analytical problem-solving abilities that I have developed, in addition to the growth in my time-management and presentation skills, are where they are largely due to my Program experience.  It has also allowed me to develop strong networks and relationships with peers who I have studied with.