This week, I officially passed the SHRM-CP exam!
For me, this milestone is far more than just earning a credential or adding letters after my name—it’s a symbol of resilience, determination, and the belief that I am exactly where I’m meant to be.
This achievement represents the 300 doors that slammed in my face over the past two years as I applied for HR roles. Despite more than a decade of leadership experience, my lack of HR-specific job titles kept me on the sidelines. Every rejection fueled my resolve to prove that I not only belonged in HR but could thrive and excel in the field.
After earning my master’s degree in Industrial-Organizational Psychology in 2022, I dove headfirst into the job market. I spent hours crafting tailored resumes and personalized cover letters, only to face rejection after rejection—or worse, complete silence. Why? Because I didn’t have “HR experience.”
When I started studying for the SHRM-CP, I vividly remember flipping open my college textbook, Fundamentals of Human Resource Management, 5th Edition by Gary Dessler. In the first chapter, the author emphasized why managers often make excellent HR professionals.
Managers already handle the fundamentals of HR daily: coaching, mentoring, progressive discipline, enforcing laws and regulations, training, recruiting, interviewing, and developing teams. I had done all those things—but no one seemed willing to look beyond my job title to see the wealth of transferable experience I brought to the table.
That’s why this certification matters so much. It validates what I already knew: I had the skills, the knowledge, and the education. But in today’s competitive job market, a title or certification often acts as the “green light” to move forward—just like putting a car in drive before hitting the gas.
What It’s Like to Study for the SHRM-CP
Let me start by saying this: I’m a total nerd. I absolutely love learning, researching, and diving into new subjects. When I began my role as an HR Generalist six months ago, I asked countless questions, took meticulous notes, and researched anything I didn’t fully understand. I wanted to ensure I could not only do my job but excel at it. Studying for the SHRM-CP was no different.
My wife generously lent me her SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP All-in-One Exam Guide and practice exam booklet, which became my constant companions. I devoured those resources cover-to-cover, took every available practice test, and revisited any weak areas until the material felt second nature.
I also revisited my college textbook and supplemented my learning with The SHRM Essential Guide to Employment Law by Charles Fleischer. Between study sessions, I reinforced my understanding by tackling practice questions and researching anything I found unclear until it became part of my DNA.
One thing that surprised me? I didn’t take a single note. Instead, I focused on internalizing concepts by continuously testing my knowledge.
Reflection
Passing this exam is more than just a personal victory—it’s a reminder that persistence pays off. The journey wasn’t easy, but every rejection, every late-night study session, and every ounce of effort was worth it.
Today, I’m proud to call myself an HR professional. I love my role as an HR Generalist, and this certification confirms what I’ve known all along: I am exactly where I’m meant to be.
To anyone out there doubting their potential, take heart. With perseverance, hard work, and a belief in yourself, you can achieve your goals.
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