Fosu Acheampong is a second-year graduate student at Ball State University, pursuing a degree in Actuarial Science. He also holds a master’s degree in Financial Technology, which has equipped him with a strong foundation in data analysis, financial modeling, and the technological tools that drive modern finance. Outside the classroom, Fosu enjoys playing and watching soccer and basketball, listening to music and podcasts, and experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen.
Gaining Industry Experience at Swiss Re
Fosu recently completed an internship with Swiss Re in Fort Wayne, where he worked on actuarial and analytical projects. He first learned about the opportunity during a company presentation at Ball State. The internship offered him a valuable platform to apply his academic training in a professional setting, particularly within the dynamic field of reinsurance.
Mathematics in Real-World Problem Solving
Throughout his internship, Fosu engaged in statistical modeling, risk assessment, and data analysis. His background in mathematics—especially in probability and statistics—proved critical in analyzing data trends and building predictive models. These models helped support business decisions and demonstrated the practical applications of the skills he had developed in his academic journey.
Navigating Challenges and Celebrating Growth
One of the major challenges Fosu encountered during his internship was adjusting to the fast-paced environment and managing multiple projects with tight deadlines. Despite the demands, he found it extremely rewarding to see his analytical work contribute to real business outcomes. The experience reinforced the importance and impact of his actuarial training in addressing real-world problems.
Looking Ahead: Career and Beyond
Fosu Acheampong believes his internship experience has significantly strengthened his readiness for a career in actuarial science. It deepened his understanding of applying mathematical models in fields like reinsurance and risk management, while also providing a firsthand look at industry practices. This hands-on experience affirmed his passion for the field and gave him clarity on the direction of his professional journey.
Advice from Experience
If he had the chance to speak with an undergraduate student preparing for an internship, Fosu would encourage them to ask two important questions:
- What specific skills or software should I focus on developing to be competitive for an actuarial internship?
- How can I effectively network within the actuarial field?
He believes these questions can help undergraduates focus their efforts and better prepare for success in the industry.
Tips for Aspiring Actuarial Interns
Fosu offers the following advice for actuarial science students seeking internships:
- Develop strong programming and data analysis skills—familiarity with tools like Python, R, and Excel is essential.
- Engage in networking—connecting with professionals and participating in actuarial societies can open doors to new opportunities.
- Stay persistent—the internship search can be challenging, but resilience and continued engagement with the field are key to success.
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