Name: Yifan Wang
Position: Actuarial Apprentice
Company: Aon
Location: Birmingham
Growing up, I did not have a definite career path in mind although I have always had a natural aptitude for mathematical subjects. After choosing my A-Levels, I began to research various university courses alongside my friends however none of them offered the practical, real-world experience which I was after. This, plus the opportunity to get paid a salary and to achieve professional qualifications without student debt is what convinced me to undertake an apprenticeship.
I have always been fascinated by the financial services industry as it plays a key role in the UK economy and provides a unique opportunity to solve complex numerical problems on behalf of clients. After speaking to a family friend who had studied Actuarial Science at University, I began to undertake further research into the sector and after subsequently completing a voluntary work placement, decided that it was the perfect career for me.
I initially heard about Aon's apprenticeship programme through a career fair at my sixth form. After discussing the opportunity with my friends and teachers, I went online to learn more about the company and the requirements of the scheme in general. Aon regularly go out into the community and present at such events which are a great opportunity for any student interested in an actuarial career to learn more!
My role is varied and interesting with no two days are ever exactly the same! One of my key tasks is to deal with queries which we receive from clients and arrange for pension values to be calculated. In addition to this, I am also involved in drafting reports and presentations, gathering information and performing a variety of calculations. I also provide support to more senior colleagues on different items of work as required.
It was a big step up in terms of responsibility and having to settle into a full-time working routine! However all of my colleagues have been very helpful and supportive and I have made lots of new friends since starting at Aon. I am still able to see all of my old friends who decided to go to University and do not feel like I have missed out on ‘student life’ in any way!
There are a variety of opportunities at Aon, but for now my focus remains on completing the CAA exams within my apprenticeship and subsequently I am hoping to move on to the fellowship exams to become a fully qualified actuary.
