Q & A with Lyena Chong, CFE

Lyena Chong of Singapore recently became a CFE after studying with the CFE Exam Prep Course. When Lyena is not working, she enjoys reading and listening to classical music. This past April, Lyena put some time aside to pursue the CFE credential. Lyena says having the CFE credential helps her understand how a fraudster thinks and will better equip her to handle different types of fraud cases that come her way.

Coach: When did you receive your CFE credential?
Chong: I sat for the exam in March 2018 and received my CFE credential in April 2018.

Coach: Please describe your experience using the Prep Course?
Chong: I liked the user-friendly interface of the Prep Course. From the Pre-assessment to the Practice Exams, it built up my knowledge step by step in the content areas I lacked the most. 

Coach:  What did you like most about the Prep Course?
Chong: I loved the challenge of going through each timed Practice Exam and recognizing the same mistakes I have made numerous times. This helped me realize where my weaknesses were and what specific areas needed to be built up. At the same time, I built up my knowledge and skills in a well-rounded way.

Coach: How long did it take you to complete the Prep Course and how often did you study?
Chong: I started to get serious in my preparation for the CFE Exam when I signed up for the CFE Exam 90-Day Challenge from October to December 2017. I received encouragement from the participants, who also shared their experiences. I applied others’ experiences to my personal scenario to see what worked the best for me. I was motivated every single day.

Coach: In what ways do you feel that your new CFE credential will be beneficial to you in your current profession?
Chong: I feel that the CFE credential has equipped me with the professional skills to handle any fraud cases that might arise in the course of my employment. It helps me think more like a fraudster and recognize how people might commit fraudulent acts.

Coach: Would you recommend this course to your colleagues?
Chong: Yes, I have already recommended it to my friend and ex-colleague and convinced her to purchase the Prep Course.

Coach: How did you become passionate about fighting fraud?
Chong: I love to investigate, and I see challenges as fun, especially when you get to resolve them.

Coach: Now that we know what you do professionally, what do you like to do for fun and what do you find enjoyable about it?
Chong: I love to read self-improvement books and enjoy listening to classical music.
I recommend that people study constantly and on a daily basis. Do not lose your hope. The CFE Exam can be easier when you know the topics well.