Peter “Sugar Bear” Olinto is a name synonymous with CPA Exam success for countless candidates. With over 20 years of experience teaching with Becker, Peter Olinto, CFA, JD, CPA (inactive), has become a legendary figure in the world of accounting education. But his journey to becoming a beloved instructor is as impressive as his credentials.
Peter’s academic foundation is exceptionally strong. He graduated magna cum laude from Pace University in 1990 with a Bachelor’s of Business Administration. His career began in audit at Deloitte & Touche, providing him with invaluable practical experience in the field. Driven by intellectual curiosity and a desire to further his expertise, Peter pursued law at Fordham University School of Law in New York City. He earned his Juris Doctor degree with aspirations of becoming a tax attorney. Interestingly, while immersed in the rigorous world of law school, Peter discovered his passion for teaching. He started by preparing students for the LSAT and SAT, gradually transitioning into the realm of CPA Review, where he truly found his calling.
In 1998, Peter Olinto joined Becker, a leading name in CPA Exam preparation. Here, he expertly guides students through the challenging FAR, REG, and BEC sections of the CPA Exam. Beyond exam prep, he also delivers CPE courses on diverse financial topics, continually contributing to the professional development of CPAs. What makes Peter stand out at Becker isn’t just his deep knowledge, but his ability to connect with both colleagues and students. A popular anecdote within Becker circles suggests that passing the CPA Exam with Becker under Peter’s guidance might just earn you a celebratory cup of coffee from the man himself! He’s known for his engaging teaching style, often incorporating memorable mnemonics like EBOCA, and his favorite course to teach remains FAR, showcasing his passion for financial accounting and reporting. Outside of his Becker commitments, Peter extends his expertise to CFA review courses and enjoys a good-natured rivalry with fellow instructor Tim Gearty.
Peter’s advice for conquering the CPA Exam is both straightforward and encouraging: “You can and will do it, so long as you are willing and able to make the sacrifice. Proper preparation requires patience, practice and perseverance.” For current CPAs engaged in CPE coursework, Peter emphasizes focused learning, advocating for undivided attention to maximize course benefits and avoid the pitfalls of multitasking.
While the world of accounting education is fortunate to have Peter Olinto, he jokingly reveals an alternate career path: DJ. However, for Becker students and the accounting profession, Peter’s dedication to teaching and his expertise are invaluable assets. He remains a cornerstone of CPA exam preparation, guiding countless individuals toward achieving their professional goals.
