Wandou (Penny) Peng

Audit Graduate, BDO Auckland
Bachelor of Business in Accounting

She loves the problem-solving aspects of her work, says Wandou (Penny) Peng who came to AUT as an international student from China and now works as an audit graduate at the Auckland branch of global accounting giant BDO.

“Every day feels like I’m solving puzzles. We spend a lot of time talking to clients to understand their businesses and finances. We review their financial statements and other documentation to spot any issues and offer them tips on how to improve them. I get great exposure, which means I get to learn about different industries and how they operate. It feels great to see our hard work pay off.”

She says the people she works with are absolutely amazing.

“Being part of my team feels like an achievement on its own, and I for sure am proud of this. They’re always there to support me and make the busiest days enjoyable. We’ve learnt a lot from each other. Receiving positive feedback from a client for our professionalism is a highlight, and it’s a great reminder that our effort truly makes a difference to our clients and their businesses.”

More than the theory
Deciding to study business was easy for her, Penny says.

“I’ve always been curious about how businesses handle their finances and make things work. AUT was the perfect fit as the courses and projects are designed to offer a practical approach, and there are strong connections with different industries and lots of networking events. This all makes AUT a great place to kick start your career.”

There were a number of highlights throughout her studies at AUT.

“I especially loved the case study projects. It was great to apply what we were studying in a real-world context and gain insights from our peers. The final-year workplace experience was a fantastic opportunity to experience a real corporate setting before starting my first full-time job.

“I also learned a lot from Shadow a Leader, a programme where students spend a day with a business leader. Being able to observe a typical workday at one at one of the big four accounting firms gave me a lot more confidence about pursuing a career in accounting. It was like getting a backstage pass to see what it’s all about!”

Advice for other students
Penny, who graduated from AUT in 2024 and says her graduation was one of the highpoints of her time at AUT, has some great advice for other students who are thinking about their own university journey.

“My advice is to allow yourself to make mistakes and learn from them.”

Make the most of your time at university, she adds.

“Meet new people and discover your true passion – this is what matters most.”