I Got Hired: Tax Associate

Posted on: 30 January 2023 by Samantha Riella in Graduate stories

Sam Wilson is a class of 2021 Maths graduate, now working as a Tax Associate at BDO LLP.

How did you find out about the role?

I first heard about roles in tax through my research for a summer internship during my second year of study. The careers fairs and events offered by the university gave the opportunity to explore these roles further and discuss with firms and individuals exactly what these roles entailed.

How did you get to where you are now?

I initially applied for a place on the BDO summer internship programme, this is a 6 weeklong programmed designed to give the opportunity to experience what working at BDO and role has to offer. Unfortunately, COVID meant this became a one-week virtual programme, however this still offered me the chance to meet people within the firm, understand the role further and be lucky enough to be offered a graduate role!

What has been your best experience as part of your role?

The favourite part of my role is the variety and the fact that no two days are the same. Each day offers the opportunity to understand and solve problems, work with a fantastic team and speak with a vast array of clients in different industries and sectors.

What has been the most challenging part of your graduate journey?

As part of my role, I am also completing the ACA programme to become a chartered accountant. The balance of work, studying and also personal life can be a challenge but as you move through the qualification it becomes an easier balance to find!

What are your top tips for other students and graduates?

  1. Do as much research as you can as early as possible into the industry or career in which you are interested, the more research and understanding you have the easier the application processes will be.
  2. Speak to as many people as possible, reach out to people in similar roles on linked in, attend careers fairs and don't be afraid to ask questions!
  3. Be yourself, find a role that suits you and show your personality and who you are throughout the application process.