After failing the CSE the first time (and being a bit overwhelmed by the process), I made the trek up to L.A. in December for Dean's seminar and was blown away by his simplified studying technique!  He's very good at putting his students into the think-on-the-fly, pressure's-on, verbal question and answer mode.  I felt much more confident heading into the January CSE exam and found out recently that I PASSED!!!   If you have any questions about my experience and/or my thoughts on Dean Lee's seminar feel free to contact me via this forum...

Kristi B. (Passed January 2008)

Hello everyone.

First of all, I'm not some shill for Dean Lee's seminar. In fact I've never met him and never went to his seminar.

I merely studied with someone who went to his seminar and Dean Lee's information was so powerful that I was able to pass on my first try. Now grant it, I studied like hell and the study group set up grueling mock exams, but DL's information was spot on, clear and to the point.

If you have a chance to go to his seminar and don't you will regret it. If the seminar is not in your area, book a hotel and get to his seminar.

I count my blessings that one of my study-mates went to it and shared what he learned. It made all the difference.

He has distilled the essence/jist of the exam after having taken it 4 times, and knows exactly what they are looking for. It doesn't supersede studying and knowing the information (we do need knowledgeable architects in the field, not just good test-takers) but you will feel more confident and should not be surprised by any question that they may throw at you.

Hopefully this information was helpful for anyone on the fence about going to the seminar. 

Anonymous (Passed January 2008)

Hi Dean,
I am excited to email you back and tell you that I passed my oral exam that I took in Jan. I think that your seminar was really great in helping kick start my studying and having a better understanding of what types of questions will be asked on the exam. So you can add another first time taker - first time passer to your list of clients. Thanks again for all your help. BTW, I have moved on from CO architects, so if you still have that as my email you can use this one for the time being.
Cheers

Brian B. (Passed January 2008)

I passed! On the first try!
 Largely due to your very helpful seminar, I will definitely be recommending it to my coworkers.
 Thanks for the help.

 Elizabeth G. (Passed January 2008)

Hi Dean,
 
Good news - I passed.  I do think your workshop was beneficial and played a role in my passing the exam.  Thanks again.

Kathy T. (Passed January 2008)

Hello Dean!
I passed!!!!
Thanks so much for the help and keeping in touch!

Alicia C. (Passed May 2008)

Dean:
 I passed!  Thanks again for your help!  In my opinion, your approach to develop and present questions based upon the “Test Plan” provided by CAB helped prepare me for the type and manner of questions I experienced.  Your approach helped me to see how to better apply my understanding of the exam material. 

Tom Howell (Passed May 2008)