Choosing an employer
Choosing well: graduates share their perspectives
30 Sept 2025, 12:20
Choosing a qualification, a firm, and a career path can feel like a big decision. To help future applicants, current BDO trainees shared what shaped their choices and the advice they would give to others.
Why did you choose your current study field, and what helped you feel confident about your choice?
I chose to specialise in VAT/indirect tax because of its dynamic and complex but interesting nature. VAT, or tax in general, demands a blend of analytical thinking, attention to detail, and practical problem-solving, which I thought matched my strengths and interests. A very clear and high scope for career progression helped me feel confident in my decision to pursue a career in VAT.
Harry Meehan, VAT Trainee
I chose ACCA because I had already started it during my undergrad, and becoming ACCA qualified has been my goal ever since. The blend of my accounting and finance education with a supportive peer group tackling the same papers has really boosted my confidence and drive.
George Mon, Audit Trainee
I chose the ACA to boost my credibility in the field. The skills I have learned fit right into my daily work and have made me much more confident.
Ellen Jordan, Corporate Recovery Trainee
What helped you decide BDO was a good fit for your goals?
BDO stood out to me because of its strong reputation for technical excellence, collaborative culture, and commitment to professional growth. Being a medium-sized firm, I thought that I would get to work closely with the Partners and senior management and have lots of involvement in interesting projects within the team, which has been the case.
Harry Meehan, VAT Trainee
What made BDO the right fit for me is how it combines practical experience, study support, and PER hours – all essential for ACCA membership. As a fresher, I saw BDO as the perfect launchpad: three years of hands-on learning in Audit, exam support, and a clear path to qualifying as an ACCA member. It is a complete package that aligns perfectly with my career goals.
George Mon, Audit Trainee
I knew that BDO’s smaller teams would mean more exposure and real responsibility from day one.
Ellen Jordan, Corporate Recovery Trainee
BDO stood out because it is not just about numbers – it is about people, growth, and making a difference. The firm’s focus on collaboration and continuous learning matched my ambition to grow, not just as a professional but as a person. After chatting with a few BDO team members, I saw a culture where fresh perspectives are welcomed and real responsibility comes early.
Christina Chittilappilly, Audit Trainee
When applying for graduate programmes, the BDO Graduate Programme stood out to me among all the options I considered. Through my research and the interview process, I was impressed by the comprehensive support BDO offers for both professional exams and day-to-day responsibilities, making the transition from full-time education to full-time work as seamless as possible.
Attending BDO’s open days and speaking with staff across various departments gave me valuable insight into the company culture. Employees consistently highlighted the positive and collaborative atmosphere, as well as their genuine enjoyment of working at BDO.
What truly sets BDO apart, in my view, is its unique balance of being a large firm that provides exposure to a diverse range of clients, which accelerates professional development, yet not so large that you lose the opportunity to work closely with senior team members and learn directly from their experience.
Ciaran O’Gorman, FS Tax Trainee
What’s one piece of advice you would give someone applying this year?
My advice is to be proactive in showing your enthusiasm for learning and your interest in tax. Highlight your teamwork, communication skills, and any experiences that show your ability to adapt and solve problems.
Harry Meehan, VAT Trainee
Master your basics, stay authentic, and be ready to unlearn and relearn.
George Mon, Audit Trainee
Be curious. Show you are ready to jump in, learn quickly, and ask lots of questions.
Ellen Jordan, Corporate Recovery Trainee
Be curious and show it. Do not just tick boxes – ask questions, dig deeper, and let your enthusiasm shine through. BDO values people who want to learn and make an impact, so let them see the real you (quirks and all).
Christina Chittilappilly, Audit Trainee
Embrace the mindset of being comfortable with discomfort. Transitioning from college to full-time work introduced me to many new experiences and responsibilities that I had not previously encountered in an academic setting. For new graduates, it is essential to approach these unfamiliar situations with an open mind, viewing them as valuable opportunities for growth and learning rather than discouraging challenges. Adopting this perspective has not only accelerated my professional development but also enhanced my resilience and adaptability in the workplace.
Ciaran O’Gorman, FS Tax Trainee
BDO Trainee's
gradireland Editorial advice
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