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Muhammad Bhatti, a BSc Business Finance (Hons) student, recently completed a prestigious placement year (2023/24) at 聽, a top 5 accounting firm, within their Public Sector Assurance department.
His placement offered him invaluable hands-on experience, contributing to auditing processes for public sector clients and significantly enhancing his technical skills in financial reporting, data analysis, and audit procedures.
During his time at BDO, Muhammad worked directly with advanced tools such as Excel and audit-specific software like APT. He played an integral role in analysing financial statements, identifying discrepancies, and ensuring compliance with regulations through a variety of audit tests. His contributions were crucial to the timely delivery of audits, and his collaboration with senior team members gave him a deep understanding of strategic decision-making and project management. The challenges he faced鈥攕uch as tight deadlines and a steep learning curve鈥攕harpened his time management and problem-solving skills.
How would you prepare yourself to put your best foot forward to get placement?
"To ensure you are well prepared to apply for placements, I would start by preparing early by gaining more industry-specific experience, such as completing online courses or relevant certifications to strengthen my application. This could be done through platforms like Forage or other virtual courses that provide valuable insights into what is expected in a professional role.
Another key focus would be refining my interview skills further by practicing competency-based questions and improving how I showcase my problem-solving abilities. Additionally, I would tailor my applications more effectively, ensuring that each CV and cover letter clearly demonstrates my skills and ability to succeed in the role I鈥檓 applying for. It's important to personalise cover letters to stand out, show initiative, and demonstrate a strong understanding of what is expected in the position."
How did you secure this placement?
"I got my placement at BDO by ensuring my interview techniques were at a high level, allowing me to confidently answer any situational questions that came my way. I achieved this by using my university studies and previous job experience to add context to my answers. I also researched the company before the interview to demonstrate my knowledge of BDO鈥檚 operations and the audit process. This stood out to them, as it showed I had done my research.
Additionally, practicing competency and psychometric tests definitely helped me succeed in this stage. The more I completed, the more familiar I became with the question styles, making me less likely to be thrown off. As a result, I was able to complete them more efficiently and with greater confidence."
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The placement not only strengthened Muhammad鈥檚 technical and professional abilities but also forged a strong connection between the University and the industry. His placement tutor, Hafiz Rana, provided consistent support throughout, visiting the BDO office in London to meet with Muhammad鈥檚 people manager and discuss his progress. This personalised attention from the university helped Muhammad reflect on his development and set clear growth targets, while also solidifying the University鈥檚 relationship with BDO.
Muhammad鈥檚 performance during the placement was so impactful that he was offered the opportunity to return to BDO after graduation鈥攁n achievement that showcases how a placement can directly lead to future employment. He highly recommends a placement year to other students, as it provides invaluable real-world experience, enhances employability, and opens doors to networking and career opportunities.
Muhammad鈥檚 success story reflects the high quality of education and support provided by the University, and it is a testament to how its students are excelling in competitive industries like finance and auditing. His achievements not only enhance the University鈥檚 reputation but also serve as a compelling example to prospective students of the practical, career-boosting opportunities available through placements. His placement highlights the strong connections the University maintains with industry leaders, reinforcing its appeal as a place that nurtures future talent.聽