As part of our global series, we caught up with Daro Soeun, based in Singapore, to find out more about his journey to becoming an actuary.
I graduated in quantitative economics, mainly in econometrics. I tend to like numbers and use data to explain and suggest solutions. I was then recommended to try the actuarial profession. After doing some Google research on this profession, I found it to be a very interesting area of expertise as it allows me to use various skills such as math, statistics, coding, economics and even marketing. I think this is the perfect job for the curious like me.
When I first started this career, the actuarial role intrigued me because it was a whole new thing for me. Before that, I didn't know that all kinds of business/commercial issues could really be explained by the data and the complicated concept I have studied from my university. The actuarial role has indeed given me the unlimited possibilities to explain the various business concept within my organisation. Being able to justify the business solution using my skills in data analysis, math and statistics has been very satisfying for me until present.
Starting from someone who has no educational background in actuarial science, entering the actuarial profession is the best decision I have ever made. I think having the great team, and the supportive supervisor/mentor have provided me the great opportunity to explore various areas of this profession from valuation, pricing, financial risk and modeling. Having been in this career for almost 5 years, I saw myself rising to the challenge and continuing to improve myself to take it to the next level. I can definitely say that this process is one of the most beautiful things in my actuarial career as it gives the sense on the on-going challenges, and the sense that there will be always the new boxes for me to break out.
I would surely recommend this career to those who like to challenge themselves and find places where they could continue to develop their skills. We have to admit that this career requires commitments both in performing the roles in your daily professional task and in the effort to pass exams, but I personally think this is something that is definitely worth doing.
“Just invest in yourself”
“Investing in yourself is the best investment you will ever make. It will not only improve your life, it will improve the lives of all those around you.” ―Robin Sharma
Find out more about Becoming an Actuary and our work in South East Asia on our website.
