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How to become an actuary, and what topics are mainly needed to pursue that career?

I’m, a senior in high school that likes mathematics and I would want to use mathematics in my future job.

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Donna’s Answer

I was a professional actuary for about 40 years and retired in 2015. For most of that time I was a consultant to corporations that sponsored defined benefit pension plans and assisted them with the design, funding, and administration of the programs. I love mathematics and majored in it in college. However, although helpful, a major in mathematics isn't essential but enjoying mathematics is a strong indicator that you will like this career.

The website I recommend going to is soa.org.
It is the website of the Society of Actuaries and in the US it is a very highly regarded organization. To become a member of the organization requires you need to pass various tests and courses. You can learn about the current requirements at that website.

At the time I earned my Fellowship in the Society of Actuaries, it was all through testing and it took me about 5 years to complete 9 exams. I got credit for the first exam by my GRE advanced mathematics score and passed the second exam the month I graduated from college. I then worked at a large insurance company where they gave study time during the work day to help those hired as potential actuaries. I got halfway to the Fellowship designation while at the insurance company. I then left that job (due to moving to another city upon marriage) and spent the rest of my career doing pension consulting at large consulting firms. I enjoyed that work very much. I completed my exams three years later. The program is rigorous and takes many years to complete. I found the learning part quite
stimulating but I was someone who loved school and studying (a bit weird perhaps) but for me I liked that I could work but still be actively pursuing what to me seemed like an advanced degree.

Overall, the career is well-paying and as there are not all that many professional actuaries, it is relatively easy to find employment. However,
my experiene is often you need to show promise by having completed some of the syllabus for companies to be interested in interviewing you

There are many different avenues/specialties in the actuarial field and I found it never boring and always challenging. But it isn't for everyone.
Finding a summer internship is a good way to test the waters (although I didn't do that as I hadn't thought about what I wanted to do after college until late senior year and got my first job the summer following graduation).

Two main divisions are life and property/casualty. What I have described is the life side. There is a second organization that provides professional designations for the property/casualty side. Their website is casact.org.

My recommendation is to start with the two websites I mentioned and learn about the career opportunities for each.
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david’s Answer

You are fortunate to be talented in math, as there are so many careers that are open to you. You asked about being an actuary, and I found a website on that specific career, but I encourage you to also consider other career possibilities for a better grasp on the work environment and social atmosphere of various careers. Anyway, here is that website and I hope you find it useful.
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/careers/what-does-an-actuary-do All the best to you,
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Damian’s Answer

If you enjoy math, a career as an actuary might be perfect for you. Actuaries often experience high job satisfaction and an excellent work-life balance. In my view, the simplest way to become an actuary is by attending a school that offers a well-known actuarial science major. To locate these schools, search for "Centers of Actuarial Excellence" on Google.

Keep in mind that actuaries usually need to take exams starting in college and continuing into their early careers to gain credentials. If you're good at studying and enjoy taking tests, actuarial science could be an ideal choice.

Best of luck! I'm confident you'll achieve success, no matter which path you ultimately decide on.
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Claude’s Answer

That's fantastic! As a senior in high school with a passion for mathematics, you're on the right track to a successful and fulfilling career. Remember, the sky's the limit! Keep an eye out for colleges with excellent mathematics programs and consider pursuing actuarial science as your chosen field.

During your college journey, you'll be exposed to an array of stimulating courses such as finance, economics (micro and macro), calculus, probability and statistics, computer science and programming, and even business and management. And don't forget the importance of honing your writing and communication skills through courses like speech, business writing, and technical writing.

By pursuing your interest in mathematics and continuing your education in a challenging and exciting field, you'll undoubtedly make a significant impact in the world. Keep pushing forward, embrace your love for math, and make your dreams a reality!
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Justin’s Answer

Pursue your enthusiasm and curiosity for math by going to college and choosing a major in either mathematics or actuarial sciences. It's a good idea to take a minor in business management too, as it will come in handy when you work as an actuary later on (for instance, being an actuary at an insurance firm). Make sure to concentrate on statistics within the math field, as it's crucial for a successful actuary career.
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Donald’s Answer

You're definitely headed in the right direction. I used to work in HR for a Pension Fund and hired numerous Actuaries during that time. Some key factors to think about while in college include: choosing a major in Mathematics or Actuarial Science, and keeping your GPA high. Make sure to select a college that offers a strong career services program to help you find internships and full-time job opportunities. Above all, best of luck!
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