The work you get a local CPA firm does not carry over as well as doing public accounting (Audit).  Since there is more financial accounting involved.  Most local CPA's focus on individual tax.  So I don't think that is the ideal route.

I watched Stalla videos, skimmed through the study guides.  Then I read the Schweser notes and did QBanks.  I was so strapped for time that I took the mock tests from CFA 1-2 days before the test.  If I pass, I definitely want to attack Level 2 asap.  It's too stressful cramming that much information in a short amount of time.  About 1 more month till results.  The CFA is pretty brutal, definitely tons of sacrifice and commitment is necessary.

I suspected as much, and that is true about my job.  But I do have some audit experience at bigger firms.  Do you think I should try and get in with the Big 4 to get more SEC audit experience before thinking about this?  Thanks again.