Audit Trainee

Stuart Gagen

Accountancy

Placement (10 Months+)

BDO

What made you apply to BDO?

I knew I was interested in a career in accountancy and BDO stood out as a firm who took an innovative approach whilst having a great reputation globally within the market. I wanted to work for a company which would provide a rounded experience of different challenges within a variety of industries whilst understanding what it takes to work in a challenging and competitive market.

What did you enjoy most about your placement/internship?

The internship allowed me to meet a diverse set of exciting individuals from other interns to BDO partners. I never really knew what audit entailed but BDO empower and trust their interns by sending us on site with a range of large clients to help out with the overall process. To feel that I was contributing to the overall audit was hugely rewarding and an amazing opportunity to learn so much from those around me.

Would you want to return to work full time at BDO and if so, why?

Absolutely! The culture at BDO is different to many other accountancy firms. All members of staff were supportive and friendly. It’s imperative to work somewhere you feel welcome and comfortable so that you can engage with others and enjoy your work. There is also a great social side at BDO which included nights out and a weekend away to the national football tournament.

What is the most valuable lesson you learnt on your placement/internship?

Ultimately I learnt about my audit role and what would be expected of me both on site and within the office environment. You will learn key skills of how to interact with clients and provide professional client services which no university degree will ever give you exposure to. Most importantly I realised that I thoroughly enjoyed it and audit would be a suitable career option for me.

What advice would you give to someone planning their placement/internship?

Absolutely apply to one! You cannot gain a similar experience and understand first-hand how you might suit within a role. Furthermore you’ll have an amazing time, you will get paid and in my opinion it is the best way to secure a graduate job. There is no better feeling than being offered a contract before starting your final year at university!