WHY DID YOU BECOME AN ACTUARY?
I decided to become an actuary in 2011. After trying several fields in college including mechanical engineering, mathematics, financial mathematics, and economics, I landed on actuarial science as a career. Actuarial science is a field that relies on several areas of knowledge and experience including mathematical/logical thinking, statistical methods, regulatory knowledge, as well as financial expertise. It uses experience in all these areas to solve problems related to risk management. The use of a variety of fields is what keeps the actuarial profession attractive to me.
DESCRIBE A CHALLENGE YOU HAVE OVERCOME.
Several years ago, I was working for a small organization as the only credentialed actuary. Although I had my ASA at the time, I did not have sufficient experience to issue actuarial opinions in the area in which I was working. Despite being pressured by the director of my department (who was not an actuary) to sign off on work that I was not qualified to do, I did not do so. I explained to him the reasons why it was unethical for me to give actuarial opinions when I was not qualified. This served as a good opportunity to educate others on what it is that actuaries do and the importance of proper qualification when serving the public.
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY THE MOST ABOUT BEING AN ACTUARY?
The opportunity to solve a wide range of problems involving risk. The health care field is always evolving and presenting those who participate in it with new challenges.
SHARE SOMETHING ABOUT YOURSELF.
I love running and reading (but not simultaneously!). Every morning, I run 5 miles prior to beginning my day. It is a chance to meditate and get my thoughts straight prior to getting my work started. Whenever I am not working, it is highly likely that you will see me behind a book. I am currently reading Which Country Has the World’s Best Health Care? by Ezekiel Emanuel as well as When We Do Harm by Dr. Danielle Ofri. Reading widely was a discipline that was instilled in me by my father while growing up and I have always enjoyed it.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU SHARE WITH YOUNG ACTUARIES?
Try as many things as possible in your career and make relationships with as many people as possible as well. The best way to learn is by working on a variety of projects.
