Meet Jenna, a recent audit intern at BDO! She’s currently studying Accounting and Management Information Systems in the Carson College of Business here at Washington State University. Hear about her experience and insights from her time at BDO.
Highlights from Jenna’s internship
‘This summer I had the opportunity to intern in audit at BDO, and it’s honestly been such a valuable experience. One of the biggest takeaways for me has been learning the true meaning of teamwork and how to give and receive feedback in a way that helps everyone grow. I got to do the same kind of work as the actual associates, so I really felt like part of the team. From attending client site visits to preparing audit workpapers, everything we did was hands-on and practical.
A few highlights for me were the mentorship program and how supportive the whole team was. I had a career advisor, a buddy, and seniors who were all genuinely invested in my growth. We also had “intern hours” where we learned professional skills about the firm and the industry. And on top of that, we had fun events like pickleball, coffee runs, and office/team lunches. It made the transition into this work environment outside of school feel a lot more manageable.’
How early preparation and involvement helped Jenna land the internship
‘I started early by going to career fairs like Meet the Firms and getting involved with Beta Alpha Psi. That helped me meet professionals and understand which firms aligned with what I was looking for. After that, I did my research and only applied to places that felt like a good fit for me, because it’s not just about whether you fit the company, but whether the company fits you too.
To stand out, I made sure I was stepping into leadership roles and taking initiative in and out of the classroom. I applied right when applications opened, reached out to my interviewers to thank them, and came prepared with thoughtful questions that showed I cared. Clear communication and preparation really helped set me apart.’
Advice for aspiring interns
‘Start early. Get involved before junior or senior year so you can build leadership experience and grow your network. Go to events, join organizations, and actually talk to professionals. Don’t be afraid to reach out on LinkedIn or after an info session. Most people are happy to help if you just ask.
Also, make sure you’re researching the companies you’re applying to and applying early. Prepare for interviews by going to their events and looking through their website. Know the company, their values, and what the job actually involves. And once you’re in your internship, ask questions, be open to feedback, and soak in everything. Internships give you a real look at what life after college could be like, and they’re an incredible way to grow both professionally and personally.’
