Audit Trainee Review

Working in audit means no two days are the same, however, a standard day might involve team catch ups, meetings with management of audited entities to clarify queries, and documenting this. In shot, verifying the reality of a transaction from the financial statement area I'm responsible for. And no day is complete without getting coffee from the BDO cafe - Fibs!

I've learnt multiple new skills already, most of them are the practical application f theoretical knowledge. Also, frequent communication with management also helps to develop my communication skills.

I enjoy my program because it allows me to develop professionally - by studying for the ACA qualification as well as meet some amazing people, be that in the form of friends from my cohort, helpful seniors or chill managers. I get to travel on some engagements and explore new places which has been an enriching experience as well.

The program has a clearly defined pathway that balances working an studying to a good extent. I get to apply what I have learnt which is very helpful.

The culture in the organisation has so far been really supportive of my progression with my qualification. I remember being booked onto a project while I had my exams coming up and my manager was really helpful in ensuring I had a good work-life balance.

My training provider is BPP, who has a very excellent group of tutors. They are quite flexible as well since we have the choice of learning in a face-to-face classroom as well as a virtual one with the teaching quality being high in both cases. We also have recap sessions and forums where questions can be asked and will be answered pretty fast by the tutor.

I am studying for the ACA qualification which is directly relevant to my role. From my knowledge, the program is designed such that as first year trainees we learn the basics of Accounting and Auditing and then apply it to work as we are exposed to low risk areas, then we're supposed to go back to college and learn some advances stuff and are the given exposure to slightly more complex areas as second year trainees and so on, until qualification. The course and the role compliment each other well

Yes, as part of the Trainee Group Committee my role includes arranging multiple social events. We've already had a few socials with drinks and games, a Christmas soiree and are in the process of arranging a sports day as well. As part of BDO, I've been able to participate in many networking events - the latest of which was the Bright Network Equity, Diversity and Inclusion event, which was an amazing experience.

Yes

The culture of the firm is really good and it has a wide variety of opportunities available. The qualifications are relevant to the industry and the firm values actually translate into visible attributes embodied by the people.

Be your authentic self while making your application. Avoid the 'my weakness is I'm a perfectionist' routine as being genuine is truly appreciated. All the best!