A Journey of Resilience

How RA Tuition Was Born

I am Javier Aguirre, the creator of "RA Tuition". A proud Spaniard at heart, I have a deep passion for football—especially for Athletic de Bilbao, a team that embodies grit and loyalty. While my roots are firmly planted in Spain, I’ve always been curious about different cultures and have loved connecting with people from around the world ever since I was young. Naturally an introvert, I believe in the strength of thoughtful actions and the importance of authenticity.

In 2017, love entered my life in the form of a Dutch woman whose charm and warmth felt as effortless as a soft breeze. Her world called me—a new land, a new language, and, as I would soon discover, a new set of challenges. Eager to begin a life together, in April 2019 moved to the Netherlands, leaving behind the comfort of familiarity. What lay ahead was an uncharted adventure, filled with unexpected twists and challenges that would test my resolve in ways I could never have imagined.

In November 2019, I began my journey toward becoming a Registered Accountant, not fully knowing what I was getting into. Despite having years of experience in auditing, navigating the Dutch process to become a Registered Accountant (RA) felt like being thrown into an unfamiliar sea without a map. The requirements turned out to be complex, with most of the guides written in Dutch—a language I barely understood.

Determined, dived into the process. Applied for a one-year exemption for the practical part of the program due to my prior audit experience, but figuring out how to do it felt like piecing together a puzzle where half the pieces were missing (and the instructions were written in code).

Devoted countless hours to crafting detailed 55-page reports for the practical part, ensuring every line met the highest review standards of a meticulous audit quality partner. Perfected my reflective skills through the Korthagen model—essentially becoming a philosopher with a five-step toolkit for introspection. At the same time, immersed myself in the academic rigor at Tilburg University, diligently completing most of the scheduled cases to be fully prepared for the final exams.

By November 2022, after facing the big "mondeling" exam (think of it as the ultimate challenge), I officially became an RA. Somehow, I was even the first in my group to finish both the postmaster and the RA qualification. But honestly, it wasn’t about being the best or the fastest—it was about staying determined and not giving up, even when the path felt confusing. This journey taught me that with enough hard work, patience, and maybe a bit of humor, even the toughest goals can be achieved!

Today, I am happily married to the woman I followed to the Netherlands, and together, we are raising a beautiful baby. The story doesn’t end here; it inspired a greater mission. Reflecting on the challenges I faced, I realized I could use my experience to help others navigate the same journey. And that’s how "RA Tuition" came to life.

RA Tuition represents my belief that no aspiring RA should have to tackle these challenges on their own. It’s a source of support, in English, for all accounting professionals.