7 Things I Wish I Knew Before Becoming an Actuary

[@PaulRichards1]

Similar experience from me as well. It took me 10 years to pass all the exams and it was very stressful at times (especially with 5 kids!) Only thing I'd disagree with a little is that the work life balance doesn't automatically get better when you finish the exams. Sometimes your workload just increases and that ends up filling the time you used to spend studying. It's important to find a company that's a good fit for the kind of work life balance you want to have.

[@EtchedActuarial]

Hey Paul! Wow, congratulations on passing all those exams, and with 5 kids nonetheless! You also make a really good point about life after exams. It's true that companies can realize you're finished with exams and fill in that extra time with.. more work 😅 Thanks for sharing!

[@athenaamethyst8385]

I just started my journey. But, I, as a mom of 2 kids under 5, I think I have the stress management part down at least! haha. Thanks for another great video. :)

[@EtchedActuarial]

Oh my gosh I can imagine! Those stress management skills are serving you well already haha. Glad this was helpful and wishing you luck! :D

[@robertholcomb5450]

I really appreciate the insights! I'm a small business owner with a bachelor's degree in business analysis and management. I'm interested in this field, but I'm 44 years old. Would it make sense at my age to even consider going down this path? Thanks in advance!

[@aaryamananand904]

Such an insightful video! Thank you so much

[@EtchedActuarial]

So glad I could help, Aaryaman! :D

[@slesinski57]

Helpful

[@EtchedActuarial]

Glad I could help! 😊

[@benibarca550]

Love that can you please make a video on ifoa and soa comparision in much details

[@EtchedActuarial]

Hi Beni! Thank you for the video request, unfortunately I'm not an expect on IFoA so I'd recommend checking with them to learn more! Sorry about that, I wish I could help more!

[@SmokingwithBush]

I wish I knew that there are constant exam changes by the SOA. When I first began exams, I only needed 5 to become ASA and now I need 7. Makes the journey that much longer 😒. Just passed my fifth and have to keep going now.

[@EtchedActuarial]

That's a really good point. Since becoming an actuary takes quite awhile, the process is bound to change while you're in the middle of it and you'll have to make some adjustments (which is never fun). Wishing you luck with your last two exams, you've got this!!

[@SmokingwithBush]

@@EtchedActuarial agreed!! Thank you, Brea! You've been so supportive even before I passed my first exam a few years ago and I am thankful to have come across you.

[@Excelsior2043]

Thanks, Brea for sharing such insights into the career. May I ask, can I work in the US as an Actuary if I have IFOA exemptions?

[@EtchedActuarial]

Hey Jason :) Yes, you can transfer your credentials and get credit for certain exams passed under SOA/CAS using your IFoA exams. But I'd check with the IFoA to ensure your credits will transfer! If that's the case, it's definitely possible to work in the US if you become a top candidate!

[@psgrimm64]

My son is going into his 3rd year of study to become an Actuary. What specific type of programming course would serve him best if he continues to try to become an actuary? Thanks!

[@EtchedActuarial]

Hey there! :) I usually recommend learning VBA or Python for your first programming language. The type of course he takes isn't as important, as long as it matches your son's learning style! I'd recommend checking out this video to learn more about programming for actuaries: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qJ-4f5J_Zbhkars

[@ThaoTran-gs8by]

Can actuary work outside insurance lile banks?

[@EtchedActuarial]

They definitely can! Check out this video for more info: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bqO0omiHpcxrmNU

[@lucasirvine6259]

Is the actuary work at uni just really hard level of maths Tempted by it possibly

[@EtchedActuarial]

Hi Lucas! What you learn in an actuarial science degree will involved a lot of difficult math, but that isn't all you'll do! This article explains more about what you'd learn in an actuarial science degree, and your other options: etchedactuarial.com/actuarial-science

[@samyakchopra7414]

Can I clear actuarial papers with doing bsc in actuarial science

[@cleogyrl]

You can take exams while in school but, depending on where you're studying for your BSc., you may be able to get exemptions/credit for some exams just by passing your actuarial courses. It's worth looking into before you start taking any exams!