Studying Actuary
Karen Fray tells GAAPweb about studying to become an Actuary and how she has moved forward in Financial Services.
Starting point
Tell us about your academics and your career path. How did you get to where you are now?
I went to University in Southampton where I studied Maths. During the holidays I worked in Barclays Bank as a Cashier which got me into wanting to work in Financial Services. Before graduating I applied for several Banking and Accountancy jobs but was unsuccessful. Just before my final exams, I had a successful interview for an Actuarial position. I've enjoyed the job so much that I haven't looked back.
Skills and qualifications
Are you qualified or currently studying for a Financial qualification? What benefits do you expect to gain from qualifying?
I'm currently studying for my final Actuarial exam as we speak. The benefits I expect to gain from qualifying are mainly financial benefits as I am not working in a purely Actuarial job.
What core skills did you pick up in the early stages of your career that are still essential in your current role?
The main mathematical and analytical skills are key and these are taught at the early stages of your development. I suppose I was fortunate to work in a small organisation when I started to I also gained a lot of "work" experience that has stood me in good stead – this included dealing with Management early on and getting used to deadlines and the stresses that come with them!
As we speak
Tell us the best thing about where you work.
The people are good and I feel I've learnt a lot from the people around me. I've also gained 10 years worth of experience in the company and therefore I've obtained a good knowledge of the company and it products, which allows me to contribute more to the company than some of my colleagues. My boss is also very understanding and supportive which helps me in my day-to-day organisation of work and people.
What's the biggest work-based faux pas you've made?
Replying to an email that was actually sent on behalf of someone else so my comment went straight to my boss – and it wasn't a nice comment about him!
What websites do you regularly use?
The BBC's, Fidelity's and FT.com.
How do you keep a good balance between your job and life outside work?
I try and make sure that I get away on time if I have things booked outside work. I play sport which helps me unwind from work and manage stress. I also ensure I leave work stresses at work and don't bring them home with me.
Tips from the top
Can you offer any advice to someone thinking about a career in Finance?
Make sure you fully understand that the amount you get paid is to compensate you for your own personal time required to sit and pass the exams to get the qualifications. I think people tend to overlook the amount of personal sacrifice that is needed for the qualifications and that tends to lead to the high drop-out rates you see within the professions.