This past week marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter of my study abroad as I started my long-awaited internship at BDO in Singapore as an Internal Audit and Risk Advisory Intern. From the very first day, I realized that this experience would be both exciting and challenging. On Monday, the other interns and I received a warm welcome at the office. We were given a brief tour of the office and they introduced us to the company culture. Shortly after, we underwent training sessions to get a better understanding of our roles as interns. We then made a quick turnaround as we were immediately assigned to the client site on Tuesday.
Throughout the week, I gained first-hand experience with internal audit procedures. From organizing interviews to assessing financial controls, I saw how businesses ensure compliance and mitigate any potential risks. One of the most important lessons I have learned so far is how crucial communication is in this field. Watching how senior auditors interact with clients daily, asking the right questions the right way, and navigating through complex financial data was amazing. Internal auditing was more than just reviewing and going through numbers, it required critical thinking and adaptability.
After a long week of work, I had the opportunity to reconnect with a childhood friend who now studies at the National University of Singapore. We went to a Japanese buffet with an incredible spread of sushi, tempura, and other delicacies while catching up. He also shared some must-visit places and restaurants in Singapore, which I am excited to explore in the coming weeks. Saturday was a day to explore Singapore as I joined other Bucknell students for a walking tour of Singapore. Our first stop was Little India, where we walked through colorful murals and street vendors. Next, we visited Kampong Glam, a historic district known for its Malay and Arab heritage. Our timing was perfect, as we arrived during the Ramadan Bazaar, where street vendors were selling delicious street food from kebabs to baklava. Experiencing this festive atmosphere gave me a deeper appreciation of Singapore’s cultural diversity.
Our last stop was Chinatown, which I had been particularly excited to visit. Since Singapore has a strong Chinese heritage, I knew this neighborhood would be a great place to visit. We visited a stunning temple near a hawker center and took some time to appreciate the architecture and the peaceful ambiance. The visit ended with a meal at the hawker center, even though the famous Hainanese chicken rice place wasn’t open, the food was still amazing. Reflecting on the week, I am grateful for the learning opportunities at my internship and the cultural experiences I immersed myself in. Singapore is an incredible place with so much to explore, and I am excited to continue exploring.
