Q&A with Veselina Duhova, CFE

Veselina Duhova, CFE ,of Florida received her CFE credential this past spring after preparing with the CFE Exam Prep Course. Duhova says that earning the CFE credential was one of the most satisfying experiences of her life. When Duhova is not working, she enjoys sports, reading, and traveling.

Coach: When did you receive your CFE credential? 

Veselina: I received my CFE credential in June 2020.

Coach: Please describe your experience using the CFE Exam Prep Course.

Veselina: The Prep Course material and setup was quite a helpful experience. I found the material of the course interesting and well structured. The answers to the questions were explained very well, which helped me understand the implementation of the concepts. The time-line helped me with scheduling and sticking to it. It helped me to stay focused.

Coach:  What did you like most about the Prep Course? 

Veselina: I liked the review questions and the explanations of the correct and incorrect options. Also, I liked how the questions were linked to the Fraud Examiners Manual, in case you need to read more about a question and/or topic.

Coach: How long did it take you to complete the Prep Course, and how often did you study?

Veselina: I originally signed up in 2019 but was unable to start preparing right away. However, after I started the Prep Course, it took me a little over ninety days to complete it. I studied about 25 to 30 questions per day and took notes. At the end of each week, I reviewed everything I had studied throughout the week from the notes. I also completed all the review questions and read the explanations for those that I initially answered incorrectly.

Coach:  In what ways do you feel that your new CFE credential will be beneficial to you in your current profession?

Veselina: Earning the CFE credential was one of the most satisfying experiences of my life! Obtaining the CFE credential indicates that I have received advanced training and gained reputation and recognition as a fraud expert. Thank you, ACFE!

Coach: Would you recommend the Prep Course to your colleagues? 

Veselina: Yes, definitely! I have advocated it to my colleagues—some of whom have already applied for the CFE Exam.

Coach: How did you become passionate about fighting fraud?

Veselina: I've seen the impact of fraud to societies through my fraud professor in college and the fraud classes I took. Often, white-collar lawbreakers can be very resourceful and innovative when seeking weak points in financial systems. I enjoy the challenge of finding the schemes.

Coach: Aside from fighting fraud, what do you like to do for fun, and what do you find enjoyable about it?

Veselina: I stay active by playing soccer and taking gym classes. Being involved in sports is fun and rewarding. I also love to read and travel. I appreciate the customs and traditions of other countries.

Coach: Do you have any study tips or suggestions for aspiring CFEs?

Veselina: Most of the questions and answers are fairly logical and interesting if you take the time to practice and understand the concepts. The Prep Course follows a pattern where if you understand the concept, then it’s easy to pick the right answer. My advice is study the practice questions first, and go through them a couple of times to become familiar with the concepts, and then use the Fraud Examiners Manual.