Learn and Grow with an Internship at BNN
An internship is about more than gaining technical experience. It’s about discovering what a career really looks like, building confidence, and developing skills that can’t always be taught in a classroom. We asked several BNN interns about their experiences this summer and what stood out most.
Real Learning Happens Through Hands-On Experience
Many interns come to BNN with a strong academic foundation but quickly discover that classroom concepts only tell part of the story.
At BNN, interns don’t spend their time observing from the sidelines. Instead, they’re given opportunities to contribute to real client work, tackle meaningful projects, and learn by doing. Through audit testing, workpapers, on-site experiences, and collaboration with engagement teams, assurance interns gain practical experience that helps bring accounting concepts to life. Similarly, our tax interns prepare client documents during tax season, and their contributions are critical to delivering exceptionally responsive service.
Communication Skills Matter Just as Much as Technical Skills
One of the biggest surprises for many interns is how much a career in accounting involves working with people. The old trope that accounting is a ‘numbers-crunching desk job’ is just not true!
Whether collaborating with teammates, asking questions, participating in meetings, or communicating with or working on site at clients, interpersonal skills play a major role in daily success. Interns learn that technical knowledge is important, but the ability to communicate clearly, build relationships, and work as part of a team is equally valuable.
It’s a lesson that often changes the way students think about the profession and helps them develop skills that will benefit them throughout their careers.
You Don’t Need to Have All the Answers
Starting an internship can feel intimidating, but interns consistently say they learned that no one expects them to know everything on day one.
Instead, the focus is on curiosity, effort, and growth. Interns are encouraged to ask questions, seek clarification, and embrace the learning process. Several noted that the supportive environment helped them overcome self-doubt and gain confidence throughout their internship.
As one intern advised future students, “Be patient with yourself. Learning and growth take time, and making the most of the experience is more important than having all the answers right away.”
Win As a Team is More Than a Core Value
When asked what attracted interns to BNN and what stood out most during their internship, the answer was remarkably consistent: the people.
BNN’s culture is fostered by people who are welcoming, genuine, and invested in helping others succeed. From recruiters and mentors to seniors, managers, and partners, employees were frequently welcomed into conversations and recognized for their willingness to answer questions, provide feedback, and maximize learning opportunities.
Confidence Comes From Taking Ownership
One of the most rewarding lesson for interns is that confidence grows through experience.
By taking on meaningful assignments, contributing to engagements, working independently, and stepping outside their comfort zones, interns begin to see themselves as professionals. Many described moments when they realized they were capable of more than they initially thought.
Whether presenting ideas, completing client work, or navigating a new challenge, each experience helped strengthen their professional skills and prepare them for the future.
More Than an Internship
While every internship experience is different, one theme was clear across every conversation: growth happens when people are given the opportunity to learn, supported by a team that wants to see them succeed.
At BNN, interns leave with more than technical accounting knowledge. They gain confidence, communication skills, professional experience, and lasting relationships that help prepare them for what’s next.