The State University of New York at Binghamton held their annual Networking Night at the Sheraton in Times Square on Jan. 7, 2020. Hundreds of students networked with more than 100 alumni who work in a wide variety of industries and professions. Alan Stone and I represented the actuarial field, and together we shared our experiences with students interested in joining the profession.
The students ranged from sophomores to graduates. Virtually all were familiar with the exam requirements and the value of internships. I urged those who are not already a member to join Binghamton’s actuarial club—whatever helps the resume and gets you to a prospective employer.
One student was familiar with the SECURE Act. He really did his preparation and would impress at a job interview. One graduate was worried about not having an internship, but we allayed her fears. She had a great personality and should slay at interviews without a little chip on her shoulder. We also advised that the Actuarial Outpost might not be the best place to lessen her anxieties.
We also reviewed resumes (less about your parking attendant experience and more about your leadership position in your business club, please) and provided contact info for further questions and resume reviews.
One thing I wished is that we had more info on the other actuarial tracks. Is there a “Benefitslink” for casualty actuaries, for example? If so, I don’t know about it.
These were all bright individuals (average SAT score for acceptance is now 1350, with less than 20% of applicants accepted). I think our profession will be in great hands.
Eric Brandon, EA, MAAA, MSPA, FCA, is a Pension Actuary with Guardian Life Insurance in the greater New York City area.
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