Successfully Earning an Actuarial Career Ticket: Lin Guan-Rui from the Department of Statistics Takes Every Choice Seriously   

 In his sophomore year, while studying compound interest mathematics, Lin Guan-Rui developed a deeper understanding of financial mathematics, which led him to discover the actuarial profession. Supported by his parents, Lin began preparing for the TOEFL exam during the summer before his junior year. After researching the actuarial industry across different countries, considering factors such as financial hubs, salaries, and job opportunities, he decided to apply to Ohio State University, Georgia State University, and Temple University for their actuarial master's programs.   

Lin emphasized that the education at the Department of Statistics at Fu Jen Catholic University aligns well with the focus on practical skills valued by foreign universities. During his studies, he participated in interdisciplinary micro-courses on big data and joined the industry-academic cooperation project "Fu Jen University Enrollment War Room 2.0," which helped him improve his programming skills and understand the importance of practical applications. He dedicated 12 hours a week to self-study, realizing that classroom knowledge is just the tip of the iceberg. The real challenge lies in applying this knowledge to real-world scenarios, which foreign graduate schools highly value.   

The Department of Statistics is not just about numbers and formulas; it's about understanding data and interpreting trends. Through exposure to real data and case studies, students learn to apply statistical theories to solve real-world problems, persuade others with data, and propose effective solutions. For his senior year project, Lin analyzed and modeled company needs to help them use internal data effectively. His internship at a life insurance company further equipped him with knowledge of loss ratios. These practical experiences made him more competitive when applying to foreign graduate schools.   

After receiving acceptance letters from three schools, Lin considered factors such as the school's reputation, the department's focus, and future career prospects in Taiwan or the U.S. Ultimately, he chose Temple University, located in a large city with a thriving actuarial industry. He believes that choices are neither right nor wrong, but depend on one's goals. 

Lin shared a quote he once read: "When passing the international English test (ETS) becomes harder than passing the actuarial exam (SOA), it means you have thoroughly understood actuarial theory." He emphasized that obtaining certifications is crucial for a career, and strong English skills are essential for applying to schools and communicating with professors abroad.   

His advice to high school students is to choose their future major carefully, as these decisions often become turning points in life. It's important to consider not just whether a field is currently popular, but also its prospects over the next five years or longer. While the Department of Statistics may present some mathematical challenges, overcoming them will reveal the beauty of statistics. Whether in business, government, or non-profit organizations, there is a demand for professionals who can analyze data, formulate strategies, and make informed decisions. This field offers a wide range of job opportunities and competitive salaries.