Learning as a mindset: Larisa's journey at BDO Cluj

Larisa Costin Larisa C.
Audit Assistant
BDO Cluj

Larisa came to BDO Cluj and, from the very first week, felt something she hadn't expected: that she already belonged. What she has built since then is a professional foundation rooted in curiosity, support and a genuine love for what she does.

 

A sense of belonging from the start

From her first week, Larisa noticed a strong alignment between herself and her team's approach to work. Her colleagues were welcoming and supportive, and the environment felt familiar almost immediately.

At the office, there is a strong sense of mutual respect within our team, which contributes to a positive working environment, ultimately reflected in the quality of the work we deliver.

Beyond the day-to-day, the moments outside work, from the Christmas party to Women's Day celebrations and team-building activities, gave the team time to connect in a more relaxed setting and strengthen their communication as colleagues.

Curiosity as a professional tool

Working with clients across a range of industries means that no two engagements are the same. For Larisa, that variety is not a challenge but an opportunity.

Everyday I get to the office thinking about what I can learn today at work. I'm a big fan of asking questions (often probably a few too many) as they help me look beyond the information in front of me and understand the wider context. What I learn today turns into knowledge I can rely on in the future.

More support than she expected

When Larisa joined BDO, she anticipated starting with basic tasks and gradually finding her footing. What she didn't expect was the level of guidance she would receive from her senior colleagues.

I did not expect, however, to receive so much guidance and support from my senior colleagues, who were always willing to share their experience and help me learn along the way. I still remember feeling the pressure of completing all my tasks on time and sometimes wondering whether I would manage it, only to hear a reassuring, "You can do this, Larisa!" when I needed it most.

A moment of real progress

One experience stood out early in Larisa's career, a moment that showed her she was developing the kind of judgement that audit requires.

One moment that really stayed with me was the first time I identified a particular matter while working through a client's documents. While it may not have been something unusual for my senior, but for me, recognising that particular issue for the first time was a meaningful achievement. It gave me a real sense of progress and showed me that I was beginning to develop the professional judgement needed in audit.

What drives her every day

For Larisa, motivation comes from a simple but powerful combination: knowing that her work matters and genuinely enjoying it.

My mindset is built around knowing that my work is meaningful, as the results I deliver are useful to our clients, and that I genuinely enjoy what I do. I believe this combination can ultimately lead to a purpose-driven career.


Her advice to anyone considering a career at BDO: be open to learning from experienced colleagues, embrace every opportunity available, and always focus on improving yourself and striving for your best results.