From psychology to accountancy... this is Ruth's story

What first sparked your interest in accountancy?

In school, I was one of the top performers in maths classes. I think this is because from a young age, I saw maths as being connected to accounting.

Later on, when I had the opportunity to do a job shadow in an accounting firm, I didn't really enjoy it because the person I shadowed was working on his own. This made me realise that I wanted to work with people, which led me to study psychology.

What was it about psychology that interested you?

I loved the idea of being able to understand people better and help them in their lives. I was particularly interested in health psychology, clinical psychology, and research.

After I graduated, I got a job as a support worker with mental health patients. I then became a therapy worker, which was a great experience. And then I got a dream job in psychology as a trainee Clinical Associate psychologist. I thought I was set.

What made you switch back to accountancy?

I wanted a career that would allow me to travel and work in different countries. I realised that if I wanted to continue doing psychology, I’d have to work for a non-governmental organisation, and that wasn't something I wanted to do. So, I followed my heart back to accountancy.I did a lot of research and that's when I came across BDO and applied for the graduate programme.

What was it about BDO that attracted you?

When I interviewed with BDO, I could tell that their company culture was different. They emphasised the importance of being yourself and not trying to fit into a mould. I also liked that their values aligned with my own.I was really impressed with BDO's commitment to its employees. I was also impressed with their diversity networks. I knew that this was the company for me.