Ronald T. Kozlowski, the Casualty Actuarial Society (CAS) Asia Ambassador, recently embarked on a visit to three of Pakistan’s most prestigious universities: the Institute of Business Administration (IBA), University of Karachi (KU), and the Institute of Business Management (IoBM). His visit facilitated through a partnership with SHMA Consulting, aimed to inspire and guide future actuaries in Pakistan, offering them invaluable insights into the profession, particularly in the domain of property and casualty insurance.
Kozlowski’s sessions, held on September 25th at IoBM and September 26th at KU and IBA, were tailored to equip students with essential knowledge about the Casualty Actuarial Society and its pivotal role in shaping the careers of actuarial professionals worldwide. He shared his expertise, shedding light on the key steps students need to take to succeed in their actuarial exams and build a solid foundation for their careers.
One of the main highlights of his sessions was the emphasis on the range of opportunities available to aspiring actuaries through the CAS. Kozlowski discussed the CAS Trust Scholarship, which provides financial assistance to students pursuing actuarial careers. He also highlighted the CAS Students Central summer programs, which offer students the chance to gain practical industry experience during the summer months, preparing them for real-world challenges. Furthermore, the CAS Students Central membership benefits were explored in detail, which provide a wealth of resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to help students grow both personally and professionally.
Beyond academic preparation, Ronald Kozlowski underscored the significance of the CAS Institute, which offers specialized certifications to enhance an actuary’s expertise and professional credentials. He encouraged students to consider pursuing these certifications as a means of standing out in an increasingly competitive field. He also introduced the Peak Re ARECA Case Competition, a prestigious platform that allows students to apply their actuarial knowledge to real-life business problems, developing practical skills and gaining exposure to the insurance industry.
Ronald’s delivery was engaging and filled with practical advice, which resonated deeply with the students. He shared strategic tips for clearing actuarial exams, a daunting task for many aspiring actuaries, and provided insights on how to manage demanding study schedules, balance personal and professional development, and maintain resilience throughout the journey. His expertise in navigating these challenges offered students a clear pathway toward advancing their careers, particularly within the property and casualty sectors.
In addition to his advice on exams and certifications, Kozlowski addressed broader industry challenges and the evolving role of actuaries. He highlighted how the field is constantly changing with advancements in technology and data analytics, making it crucial for students to stay adaptable and continuously build their skill set. His advice to embrace these changes and seize opportunities such as internships, competitions, and professional development programs was particularly valuable.
The sessions were an excellent opportunity for university students to learn directly from a seasoned professional. By engaging with Ronald, they gained a deeper understanding of the actuarial profession, its future trajectory, and the steps they need to take to excel. The partnership between SHMA Consulting and CAS played a critical role in providing this enriching experience, which will undoubtedly help shape the next generation of actuarial professionals in Pakistan. Through such initiatives, SHMA and CAS continue to foster talent and open doors to new opportunities for students passionate about the actuarial profession.
