DSquaredSlim

I agree, you should put on your resume that you are a level 1 candidate. Just don't make any implications that you are some hot shot for signing up for it.

The guy should know that the CFA is a big deal, though, and how hard it is to pass. It shows sincerity on your part to become a financial professional and shows a work ethic and self initiative on your part.

Doesn't matter if they're impressed by it. What is 100% certain is that if someone thinks of being a level 1 candidate as a "big NO", then you probably don't want to work for them in the first place as the guy is most likely a huge idiot.