Qistina Sofiyya Taqiyuddin Amini

Auditor, BDO Wellington
Bachelor of Business in Accounting

Her role as an auditor goes beyond just checking numbers, says Qistina Sofiyya Taqiyuddin Amini who came to AUT as an international student from Malaysia and now works for BDO Wellington.

“We review financial records and systems to ensure they're accurate and meet compliance standards. It takes analytical thinking, scepticism and a good grasp of internal controls. Whether it’s through on-site visits or remote engagements, we work closely with businesses to understand their operations, identify risks, and offer insights that help improve efficiency and strengthen financial integrity.

“One thing that might surprise people about working as an auditor is just how much of the job relies on communication. On-site visits mean we work closely with clients, discussing their processes and asking the right questions to uncover issues or areas for improvement. It’s a role that blends technical knowledge with soft skills – efficient communication, multitasking and a touch of customer service are just as important as the auditing itself. I’ve worked with a wide range of clients, from large corporations to non-profits, and that diversity keeps things interesting.”

She enjoys that, as an auditor, no two days are the same.

“Each business brings new challenges and insights; it’s definitely not a repetitive job. And working in a team makes the experience even better. We share the responsibilities, support each other and, as time goes on, you don’t just become better at auditing, you also learn how to adapt your communication style for different people and situations. That’s something incredibly valuable, and something I truly enjoy growing in every day.”

Following her passion
Qistina says her passion for accounting started all the way back in high school, and she knew early on that this was the path she wanted to follow. When it was time to choose a university, this passion would lead her to at AUT.

“AUT stood out to me not just for the quality of the programme, but for its practical approach to learning. The workplace experience in my business degree really caught my attention. It wasn’t just about theories in a classroom; it was about applying knowledge in real workplaces, gaining hands-on experience and understanding how accounting works in the real world. That opportunity to bridge study with experience was something I knew would give me an edge.

“The overall learning experience was the highlight for me. The workload was manageable, and I rarely felt stressed, which allowed me to really enjoy my studies. What made it even better was the connection I had with my lecturers. They knew me by name, and this made me feel welcome and valued as a student. The sense of belonging and support at AUT made all the difference and truly enhanced my learning experience. Beyond the classroom, AUT offered a vibrant student life filled with clubs and activities. One of the most memorable experiences for me was serving as the treasurer for the AUT Accounting Association. That role opened so many doors and deepened my interest in accounting even more.”

There were a few AUT staff members whose support she particularly appreciated.

“I feel really fortunate to have had Irshad Ali and Dr Sabrina Chong as my lecturers. Both went above and beyond to support me. No question ever felt too small; they always made time to explain things. What stood out even more was how they encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone, like inviting me to join the Accounting Association. That extra push made a real difference. Seeing myself pass their courses with flying colours wasn’t just a personal achievement, but also a reflection of the support I received. I’m also grateful for the guidance from Naufa from the Employability and Careers team whose guidance on CVs and job interviews was a game changer. She shared practical tips and built up my confidence so much that I walked into interviews feeling prepared and self-assured. I took her advice seriously – and it paid off, because I landed the job I have now.”

Advice for other students
Qistina – who graduated from AUT in 2024 and is proud of being included on the dean’s honours roll for 2023 – has some great advice for other students.

“Stay curious, be open to learning both inside and outside the classroom, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. They’re often the best lessons. Take every opportunity to network and remember, it’s not just about what you know, but who you know. Put in the extra effort to research companies and the people you’ll interact with – it’ll give you an edge in interviews and beyond. Build lasting connections and embrace all the opportunities to grow. It’ll pay off in ways you can't always predict.”

Enjoy your time and don’t stress too much, she adds.

“University is a journey, not just a destination. Step outside your comfort zone, whether that means joining a club, taking on leadership roles or engaging in new experiences.”