BDO Auckland offers several different student careers options, including summer internships that span the areas of Audit, Tax, Deal Advisory, and Business Advisory. But what does the programme look like from an intern’s perspective?
Kayla, an intern from BDO Auckland’s 2023/2024 intake, tells her story:
A welcoming culture and strong values
“Not knowing what I wanted to do after university, I was looking for an internship that allowed me to discover my career options and get exposure to what’s out there for a finance and accounting graduate.
Inspired by BDO’s welcoming culture and strong values, I knew that it would be a great place to work and gain the skills I need to succeed.
The rotational aspect of the BDO internship was very attractive as I didn’t understand what a career in each specific service line may look like, and I wanted to build as many versatile skills as possible.”
Varied experience across the business
“It’s hard to describe a typical day as a BDO intern as we’re always learning new things and meeting new people! In tax, you can expect to help with income tax, GST, and FBT returns, assisting Partners and consultants with tax law queries, and preparing tax advice documents for clients. In audit, you’ll undergo auditing technique and software training, work directly with clients onsite, and move around teams to work with different people.
In business advisory services, you’ll help clients with accounting tasks using suites like Xero, MYOB and AI, prepare journals and accounts, and learn about the future of accounting.”
Exposure to senior stakeholders
“I’ve really enjoyed getting to know people from all areas of the business. BDO has a great workplace culture where everyone is friendly and approachable, even the most senior Partners. I’ve never been afraid to ask for help and this has allowed me to make the most of my skill development.
Involving myself in all parts of the business has led to some of my most valuable experiences as an intern. Highlights include shadowing a Partner in a large client meeting, offering to aid various complex tax law queries, and networking with industry professionals.”
Advice to applicants:
“Be yourself when interviewing! BDO values openness and integrity so showing that you can learn and adapt from mistakes is something that will be highly valuable here.
Take on as many opportunities as you can, such as visiting other offices and trying out service lines. You learn so much during an internship to complement the skills you develop at university, so try your best and put in effort. Most of all, have fun! Meet new people and enjoy your time at BDO.”
Interested in the student careers opportunities at BDO? Read more here.