Is a Career in Actuarial Science Right for Me?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the profession of actuarial science, focusing on the experiences and perceptions of individuals considering or involved in the field. Topics include the challenges of studying for exams, the nature of the work, and the potential rewards associated with a career in this area.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express concerns about the routine nature of actuarial work, suggesting it may lack excitement beyond computations and numbers.
  • Others highlight the lucrative nature of the profession, noting it is considered one of the best jobs in the United States according to past rankings.
  • One participant emphasizes the importance of discipline and communication skills in addition to mathematical ability for success in the field.
  • A personal account mentions the difficulty of the exams, indicating that time pressure is a significant factor in the testing process.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a mix of views on the profession, with some finding it rewarding and others feeling disillusioned. There is no consensus on whether the profession is suitable for everyone, as experiences and opinions vary widely.

Contextual Notes

Some participants mention the need for self-study and long hours, while others focus on the financial rewards and job satisfaction. The discussion reflects a range of personal experiences and expectations, which may not be universally applicable.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals considering a career in actuarial science, those preparing for actuarial exams, or anyone interested in the professional landscape of actuarial work.

AdamS
I was thinking of working towards passing my first exam. Any thought on the profession, maybe something I don't now about it.
 
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hello, adam.

I did a program in actuarial science. It's difficult for me...not that the math is difficult, but that I lost interest in it. To me, actuary is about some routine computations and a bunch of numbers. There is not much excitement beyond that...

Of course that's my view only, and I don't mean to discourage you. And in fact some people do like actuarial science. But I think the most important thing one should have in becoming an actuary is "faith". From what I know, actuaries have to work long hours and most of the beginning actuaries have to study on their own for their exams besides their work. If you have no faith, you simply cannot hold on...

Anyway, that's just my opinion. Good luck to you!
 
AdamS said:
I was thinking of working towards passing my first exam. Any thought on the profession, maybe something I don't now about it.

Hi I'm actually working towards the first exam myself. From what many have told me in the profession and what I've read the profession is VERY lucrative. Not only that, the field is voted as the 2nd best job in the United States in according to the 2002 Jobs Rated Almanac. Other people are also talking about the subject in the On Advanced Math Subjects... column in general math.
 
My husband is an actuary. The job is very lucrative. He doesn't have the crazy hours of a doctor, but is paid up in that range. If you stick it out, the rewards will be worth it. I would describe him as more of an effective problem solver than a "number cruncher". You have to be disciplined enough to study, and realize there is light at the end of the tunnel. You also have to be able to communicate very well. It is a job for people who are very GOOD at math and communication.
 
I wrote the first exam and got a 2/10. The second time i studied and passed. It's not that bad, they just make sure you have no time to think on the exams. As for the job itself, I have no idea.

M
 

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