Discovering Opportunity

At BDO Jersey, we’re passionate about opening doors for the next generation of professionals. Our 2025 summer work experience programme offered students from a variety of academic backgrounds the chance to gain hands-on insight into the world of professional services.

As they headed back to their studies, we caught up with six of our placement students - Thomas, Maeve, Ed, Maddy, Alistair, and Emma - to hear about their journeys, challenges, and what they learned along the way.

From Campus to Career

Each student brought a unique perspective to the programme:

Thomas, awaiting his A-level results, originally applied for accounting and finance but is now pursuing engineering. Despite the shift, he found the experience enriching and enjoyable.

Maeve, a recent business management graduate from Newcastle, returned to BDO Jersey for a second stint after a positive experience last year. “This time I’ve been placed on specific clients and worked more closely within teams. It’s been more structured and rewarding.”

Ed, studying mechanical engineering at Exeter, joined to explore career options beyond his degree. “Here, I’ve had a lot to do and felt trusted with meaningful work - it’s been a refreshing change.”

Maddy, a Geography student, wanted to try something outside her field. “I just wanted to do something different,” she said. Her comfort with numbers helped her settle in quickly.

Alistair, found his Economics coursework relevant. “There were a lot of terms I recognised”. It was his first time working in an office environment which he found insightful and eye-opening.

Emma, studying Accounting, was also returning for a second year. “It’s helpful to put theory into practice,” she said. “It took a lot less time to get to grips with what I was doing this year.”

A BDO Manager helps work experience students with a project on a aptop computer

Real Work, Real Impact

The students weren’t just observing - they were contributing meaningfully:

From Excel training to working with real data, they were immersed in the day-to-day workings of a professional services firm.

“I’ve worked with lots of different people and it’s nice to come in knowing what I need to do each day,” said Thomas, who also had the chance to go on a client visit.

Ed appreciated being trusted with more than just basic tasks: “They trusted me to do more than just observing, which is nice.”

A Supportive and Social Environment

Across the board, the students praised the welcoming culture at BDO Jersey:

“The team is great at explaining things simply,” said Maeve. “They understand we’re still learning.”

Emma noted, “Everyone’s happy to help - you don’t need to stress.”

“Even if you think it’s a stupid question, they’re never impatient,” added Ed. “They genuinely want to help you learn.”

Social highlights included a wine-tasting event and a summer beach party, adding a fun and relaxed dimension to the overall experience.

Looking Ahead

While some of the students are still exploring their career options, others are more clear on their next steps. Alistair summed it up best: “Try anything - even if you don’t like it, at least you know. And if you love it, that’s great.”

Advice for Future Students

Their collective advice is simple and encouraging:

“Don’t let self-doubt hold you back,” said Maeve. “They don’t expect you to know everything.”

“Don’t be afraid to ask questions,” added Ed. “Everyone knows you’re here to learn.”

“Just try anything,” said Alistair.

“Don’t stress - people are happy to help,” echoed Emma.