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Introduction to the field:
It is not easy to become an actuary, but if you do become one, you are on your way to a very rewarding career that uses math all the time.
An actuary is someone who is employed in the insurance industry. Others work in actuarial consulting firms.
A very low number of actuaries work for government agencies, and computer software developers. People in this profession manage risk.
Every person and organization faces risk. As experts in measuring and managing risk, actuaries fill and play a significant need in our society.
Their contribution to society's psychological, physical and economic well-being is immense.
If actuaries didn't exist, our economy would not be able to grow as it does. Actuaries work in all sectors of the economy, though they are more heavily represented in the financial services sector, including insurance companies, commercial banks, investment banks, and retirement funds.
They are employed by corporations as well as the state and federal government. Many work for consulting firms.
Some are self-employed, enjoying financially rewarding careers that also come with the great flexibility of being one's own boss
People in this field are expert in mathematical calculation.They have a solid understand of financial mathematics, probability, and statistics. Ever saw probability with triple integrals? I saw it and I am a survivor
Their knowledge of probability and statistics is very deep. The work that they do in probability and statistics in based on calculus 1,2, and 3. A deep understanding of calculus is a must to do well.
The challenge to become an actuary:
To become certified, one needs to take a series of top-notch examinations.The first one is probability and the second is financial mathematics. See actuary exams for more information.
It is not required to pass all examinations at once to get a job. However, it is important to pass at least one or two to get a job.
Some places take people who passed at least once. However, competition is tough yet don't give up on your dream to become an actuary. If this what you really want to do, try to pass at least two exams to increase your chance of getting a job.
It may take anywhere between 5 to 10 years to pass all examinations. For others it may take even longer depending on situations.
Read more...
Additional resources
How to Become an Actuary: 9 Steps - wikiHow
How to Become an Actuary - Department of Mathematical Sciences, McMicken College of Arts & Sciences.
Actuarial Mathematics - Study in Denmark - Studyindenmark.dk is a Danish government website about higher education in Denmark for international students.
Source: Basic-mathematics.com
