Albert Ho

Though born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Albert has lived in BC since the age of five. He
grew up in Richmond, where he currently resides, and attended the Sauder School of
Business at the University of BC, graduating with an accounting degree in 2007.
Now an articling student with Johnsen Archer LLP, Albert works in the firm's Surrey
office, providing assurance and tax services to a variety of private enterprises.
"Nothing is set in stone yet," he says of his plans for the future. "There's still so much
more for me to learn. My aim is to continue to broaden my role and experience in
public practice. And with the UFE finally behind me, I'm looking forward to the many
challenges and opportunities ahead."

According to Albert, the most difficult aspect of the UFE-writing experience was waiting
each morning for the exam to begin. "It was nerve-wracking," he says. "But once the
exam did start, my nerves disappeared, and I was able to focus. The need to maintain
such a high level of focus for three consecutive days was extremely challenging
though. I was so mentally drained by the end that it took several hours for the
satisfaction and relief to actually kick in."

Albert advises future UFE writers to prepare for a rollercoaster ride. "You'll feel like
you're on top of the world one day, and then have your confidence shattered the very
next day after writing a tough sim[ulation]," he explains. "This is a normal part of the
process, and the key is to learn from these setbacks so that you can come back focused and ready the next time around.

"Also," he adds, "engaging in fun activities during evenings and weekends will help you relieve stress and stay mentally sharp."

For Albert, these fun activities included watching and playing tennis, and trying out new restaurants with his girlfriend Fontaine. "I'd like to thank Fontaine for her support and encouragement throughout the CASB modules and the UFE process," he says. "I would not be where I am today without her. I'm also grateful for the constant support of my family—they've always had the utmost faith in me."

Other thanks go to his study buddy at Johnsen Archer, Tyler Wong. "His endlessly positive attitude helped guide me through the ups and downs of the UFE summer," Albert says. "I'd also like to thank Ryan Calder, CA,* for implementing the firm's UFE prep program, and the rest of the staff who assisted with UFE training and mentoring."

*2005 UFE Honour Roll.

If you are interested in a career with Johnsen Archer LLP, please contact us at careers@johnsenarcher.ca