U of T Statistical Sciences: What got you interested in actuarial science?
When I was in high school, I didn't know what actuarial science was. But when I started doing the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma program, my math teacher pursued actuarial science at her university. Some topics she was teaching us were statistics and probability. The more we discussed that, the more interested I got.
Harsh Ruhani: Tell us about some of your past work experience.
I've had two previous internships. The first one was at the end of my second year at Munich RE. And then the second one was last summer, after my third year, which was at Swiss RE. Both were actuarial internships on two different teams.
What are your plans after graduating?
I've secured a six-month contract at Intact, which is a property and casualty insurance firm. I'm interning on their Commercial Lines pricing team. It's the first time I'm going to do any work related to property and casualty. So, it's a new challenge, a new experience, and I'm really looking forward to it.
How has your student journey at U of T prepared you for your future endeavours?
U of T prepared me really well if I'm being honest. When I came to the University, I was a very different person from who I am now. I've grown as a person, being more open-minded and resilient. I think U of T is great at moulding students for the real world.
When I started my first year, I was merely considering actuarial science. I wasn't completely sure what it is I want to do. In fact, it’s probably safe to say, I had no clue.
With all the support offered through the First-Year Learning Community and the department being so open with mentorship programs, I was able to build a strong resume, write a cover letter, and understand how to apply for a job. For example, where do I apply for a job if I don't have any experience? What can I do to secure an internship?
My time at U of T gave me a very rounded, holistic approach to university. I got to meet people from different fields, walks of life, cultural backgrounds, and just understand everything from various perspectives.
How did your experience in the First-Year Learning Community shape your experience as a new student?
U of T is such a big school. It's easy to feel lost and to feel like a number. That's not because of U of T. That's just because of how many students there are.
It’s difficult to meet people within your program or even first-year students with the same interests. The First-Year Learning Community really helped me find that community of students who share the same interest. We're in the same boat.
A bunch of us were international students and it was our first time in Canada. We were all adapting to a different culture together. Knowing that you have people to support you in that process was reassuring. At the same time, you have these mentors to explain to you what actuarial science is, how to pursue a career, what you can do to better prepare yourself for the coming years, and so on. They were just so supportive. Having that community was definitely one of the highlights of my university experience and gave me a strong foundation.
You mentioned that you were a mentor in the actuarial science First-Year Learning Community. What was that experience like and what advice do you have for students new to the program?
Being able to support students as a peer mentor is very, very rewarding. You're giving back to the community. You're helping students who are feeling the same way you felt when you were in your first year. I encourage anybody who is interested in being a peer mentor to apply.
My advice to new student mentees in the program would be to not hesitate to ask questions. Don't be shy to put yourself out there. Make sure you take advantage of mentorship and build your community. I promise you, when you graduate, you’ll look back and cherish those experiences.
What clubs were you part of?
One club that was important to me when I came to U of T was Model UN. I did Model UN in high school and middle school. It's just a passion of mine. I love public speaking and I love being able to organize conferences.
In my first year, I applied to the North American Model United Nations Conference to be a moderator, and it was such a great experience. I got to meet students from other universities. I got to meet students from U of T in other programs, which allowed me to build a strong group of friends. We still keep in touch today. It gave me a break from all my classes and assignments. It's a chance to focus on myself, and just enjoy it.
I continued my participation in my second year to become deputy secretary-general for the conference.
What advice do you have for students in balancing their academic priorities with their extracurricular activities?
Go outside. Engage in some outdoor activities, like playing a sport. Before coming to university, I used to play a lot of badminton, so I joined the University of Toronto Badminton Association and started playing badminton and squash. Through that, I met a lot of great friends. It's a great way to meet new people and take a break from your work.
For actuarial students, I'd also suggest getting involved with the Actuarial Students National Association. It's within your field, but it's also a break from your education because you're meeting students from all over Canada. They also hold the largest actuarial career fair in North America.
Do you have any final advice for students?
There are two things that really shaped my university experience: the extracurricular activities and my contact with the Department of Statistical Sciences. If you are a current or future student and you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out to the department. They're so supportive. I didn't do it for my first two years – and regretted it. Reach out to them, ask questions, ask for advice, and they'll support you.
In terms of extracurriculars, just get involved in things that interest you.
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