Page 36 - Careers in Mathematics

YOU HAVE TO BE ODD being a specialist in only one area – we need to be able to
look at the broader picture too.

TO BE NUMBER ONE. - Dr. Seuss
When I consider the highlight of my job, I would have to say
it’s the heartwarming feeling I get when the work I do for a
An actuary is a professional who applies analytical, statistical
and mathematical skills to financial and businessproblems. client has a positive impact on their business – and the
This is especially valuable when facing real-world problems gratitude they show for this. The biggest challenge of my job
WHAT DO that involve uncertain future events or financial risk.
ACTUARIES is to effectively communicate ‘technical insight’ to a
DO? potentially ‘non-technical’ audience. I have to be cognizant of
the fact that they may not understand the terminology or the
AREAS IN WHICH YOU WILL LIKELY FIND ACTUARIES WORKING INCLUDE:
methods we use, so patience is key.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my two young

INSURANCE PENSIONS BANKING HEALTHCARE RISK MANAGEMENT kids, friends, and singing at my local church. I also enjoy
reading and watching a series on TV, and when I need to get
Given the set of skills that actuaries have developed, many have also branched into wider
business fields, e.g data analytics, capital projects, environmental issues,etc. the blood pumping, I play squash.
From the definition above, three key areas of focus can be highlighted:
1. Statistical and mathematical skills l 2. Solving business problems l 3. Being a professional

WHICH SUBJECTSAHOULD It is important to remember
YOU BE CONSIDERING? that actuarial science courses
generally have higher entrance
Based on these areas, the following requirements that also consider
subjects are required: your average results. This should
• Mathematics & English be considered when choosing your
additional subjects.
While the subjects below are The next step after school is to enrol
recommended: into an actuarial science course at an
• Computer Science: accredited university.
• Advanced Programme Mathematics: For further information on each
• Accounting and/or Economics: university’s programme, please visit
• Physics: their respective websites.

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