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I remember the moment I decided to pursue the Certified Grants Management Specialist (CGMS) certification. It was after fielding the tenth question of the week from our Division of Public Health staff about the nuances of Uniform Guidance (2 CFR 200). Yet again, I didn't have an immediate answer other than, “It depends.” As the grants portfolio lead coordinator at Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), I found myself thinking, "I want to be trusted. I want to have answers ready. I want to know these things confidently and right off the bat." That was the catalyst that pushed me toward certification.
Taking the First Step
My certification journey officially began when I attended NGMA's Grants Management Body of Knowledge (GMBoK) training. It was eye-opening. I connected with grants professionals from across sectors, from federal agencies to research institutions, and realized we all faced similar challenges despite our different backgrounds. The comprehensive overview of grants management principles gave me a framework to organize what I already knew and identify gaps in my knowledge.
One of the most valuable resources I received during the training was the GMBoK Guide, a textbook providing a detailed walkthrough of the Uniform Guidance that became my constant companion throughout my certification journey. Unlike the dense, legal language of the actual regulations, the Guide broke down complex concepts into understandable chunks and provided practical context for how these regulations play out in real-world scenarios. I found myself constantly referring back to specific chapters as I deepened my understanding of grants management principles.
But the GMBoK was just the appetizer. The main course, the CGMS exam, would require much deeper preparation.
The Study Marathon
Back at my desk, I developed a structured approach to studying. I outlined the key Uniform Guidance sections, developed a guide to allowability principles, created a list of important deadlines, and so on. I wanted to memorize anything I’d need to recall in specificity on the test. Rather than trying to absorb everything at once; however, I broke down the material into manageable sections.
Beyond the sheer volume of material, one of the most challenging parts was understanding how to apply it to different scenarios. The Uniform Guidance became my constant companion. While I didn't have a formal study group, I did reach out to the NGMA Community Forum (message board) where experienced professionals shared valuable tips and insights. Even though I took a more independent approach, I would highly recommend CGMS candidates reach out on the message board site or search the NGMA Calendar for local chapter events to find a study group, which can be immensely helpful with support and accountability.
One of the most challenging aspects of the exam involves the particular flavor of information that needs to be memorized—much of it is info you would typically just look up online in your day-to-day work. Deadlines, specific dollar thresholds, exact timeframes, these were elements I had to memorize rather than rely on my usual "I'll just check the eCFR" approach. It was a different kind of preparation than my usual work habits.
Test Day: The Ultimate Challenge
The morning of the exam, I arrived at my local testing center with a mixture of nervousness and determination. Three hours, 150 questions, and no breaks—it was going to be a mental marathon!
Settling into the testing room, I took a deep breath and reminded myself that I'd prepared well. As I worked through the questions, I found they weren't just asking for regulations to be regurgitated; they also required applying knowledge to complex scenarios. Would this cost be allowable under these specific circumstances? How should a pass-through entity monitor a particular type of subrecipient?
By the final hour, my focus was waning, but I pushed through. Walking out of the testing center, I felt drained but also proud that I'd given it my all, regardless of the outcome.
When I received the email notification that I passed, I may have done a little celebratory dance. The months of study and preparation had paid off.
What I Wish I'd Known
Looking back on this journey, there are things I wish someone had told me at the start:
- The exam tests both application and recall. While understanding concepts is crucial, don't underestimate the need to memorize specific elements like deadlines and thresholds that you might normally just look up.
- Consider finding study partners. Though I didn't take this route, I've heard from others who passed that studying together made a significant difference. The NGMA Community Forum and chapter events can be a good place to connect with potential study partners.
- Trust your experience. The certification builds on practical knowledge. I found that relating new information to scenarios I encountered in my work helped make abstract regulations more concrete.
- Take care of yourself during preparation. It's worth emphasizing that exhaustion doesn't help retention. Building in breaks and maintaining balance is essential to effective studying.
Life After Certification
Since earning my CGMS, I've noticed subtle but meaningful changes in my professional life. There's a newfound confidence when I provide guidance on complex grants issues. My perspective has broadened beyond my specific sector, allowing me to see patterns and solutions I might have missed before.
The certification has also connected me to a community of professionals who share my commitment to excellence in grants management. I had a great time at the Annual Grants Training this year—my first as a CGMS—where I received my official CGMS pin. The event was a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow grants professionals and deepen my knowledge in this field as a newly certified specialist.
Maintaining the certification requires 60 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits every three years, which initially seemed daunting. But there are lots of opportunities to pick up CPEs, and I've come to see this as an opportunity to stay engaged with emerging trends and best practices.
Is It Worth It?
If you're considering pursuing the CGMS, you might be wondering if it's worth the investment of time and energy. From my perspective, yes.
Beyond the credential itself, the process of preparation transformed how I approach grants management. It gave me a more comprehensive and wide-ranging understanding that allows me to connect dots I might have missed before. It's made me more confident in my role and opened doors to new opportunities for contribution and growth.
The journey isn't easy. There were moments of frustration and doubt along the way. But crossing that finish line, knowing I'd earned recognition as a master-level professional in my field, was deeply satisfying both personally and professionally.
If you're on the fence, my advice is simple: take the leap. The road may be challenging, but the destination is well worth the journey.
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