Inside story: Pragya Jain of New Energy Risk
When did you first consider an actuarial career and why?
During my senior year in high school, when I was exploring quantitative
fields. I pursued a degree in engineering, but did actuarial internships during summer breaks.
What subject(s) did you study at university?
During my undergraduate study I studied instrumentation and control engineering subjects, artificial intelligence, mathematics and programming. Then, during my masters programme, I studied statistics and data science.
What has been most challenging throughout your work/study life to date?
Lack of quality data in pricing new products. Preparing raw data and understanding its flow has been time consuming but was critical to derive meaningful data-driven results.
What do you enjoy most about being an actuary?
I can use quantitative subjects like statistical modelling to serve the public interest by providing risk management advice to policymakers.
Where would you like to be in five years’ time?
Building innovative insurance solutions to address sustainability concerns and global challenges in the property and casualty industry.
What is your most actuarial habit?
Using Microsoft Excel on the go – from planning activities to sorting thoughts.
What is the greatest risk you have ever taken?
I took risks when I switched career paths. After getting an engineering degree I tried an actuarial job. After qualifying, I left my job for a master’s degree in data science in a new country. These risks gave me opportunities to discover my interests.
How do you relax in your spare time?
Urban gardening, cooking and reading.
Who is your role model – in life or in business?
Multiple people. I feel inspired when people put in efforts for a sustainable future, fight to create an inclusive community and display passion for
issues beyond themselves.
Give one piece of advice to the next generation of students entering the profession?
Consider your journey as a creative pursuit rather than a run against time. And don’t forget to take time for yourself.
Name one skill (aside from technical) that is an important quality for an actuary.
Communicating results and keeping the bigger picture in perspective.
Now that you have qualified… what next?
I look forward to my new role as an actuarial data scientist at New Energy Risk.
Pragya Jain, New Energy Risk