Studying for BJCP Exam

I recently decided that I would love to get more involved in the homebrewing community.  I've entered two contests in the 2 years I have been brewing so far but I have had to ship my beers across the country to do that.  I would love to be a part of these contests and actually get to taste all of the different beers people are making - good to bad, strong to weak, dark to light, etc.  Although the real reason behind all of this is that I would like to learn as much as I can about beer and brewing and I think forcing myself to study for the BJCP Exam will do just that. 

I have glanced over some of the different styles on the Android App and realized that there are plenty of beer styles I don't believe I have ever even tried.  Could one of these end up being a favorite of mine?  Probably!  While I love my APA's and IPA's, I have always had a big love for Brown Ales, both English and American.  Samuel Smith's Brown Ale is right up there in my book along with Moose Drool and Surly Bender.  For me I think it is the drinkability of the browns along with that slightly roasted, chocolaty, caramel flavor that I crave.  I can drink this style any season of the year as well.  Heck, I am still trying to make the perfect brown ale here in my home and still haven't come close, for my own tastes atleast.  And that leads to another concern of mine, how does my taste stack up with the rest of beer drinkers out there?

Once you pass the 200 Question Online BJCP Exam you become recognized.  Then in order to become a Certified Beer Judge you need to pass an in person Tasting Exam.  This is where I would really like to see how I do.  So for the next few weeks I will continue to educate myself on the different beer styles of the world and also some of the other areas that the BJCP website recommends you study for the exam.  I'll keep posting back with my progress.  Cheers!