Inspiring Future Actuaries: SOA and GSU Host Metro-Atlanta High School Students

By Marta Jimenez-Lutter, Stefanos Orfanos and Fang Yang

Expanding Horizons, April 2025

On November 4, 2024, the Society of Actuaries (SOA) and Georgia State University’s (GSU) Maurice R. Greenberg School of Risk Science joined forces to inspire the next generation of actuaries. The event, held at the Student Center on GSU’s campus, welcomed approximately 300 high school students, teachers and counselors from across the Atlanta metropolitan area. The day was filled with engaging activities, practical insights and opportunities to explore the fascinating field of actuarial science.

A Day of Learning and Inspiration

Participants kicked off the day with an introduction to the actuarial profession, learning directly from SOA staff about the diverse career opportunities in this field. Students then heard from a panel of industry professionals, who candidly shared their personal journeys, daily responsibilities and the skill sets required to succeed as an actuary.

An interactive Kahoot! game, featuring questions about actuarial science and mathematical concepts, added a competitive and fun element to the program.

An Event Fueled by Collaboration

The success of this event was the result of a collaborative effort between SOA staff, GSU actuarial science faculty, students and industry professionals. Actuarial science graduate students from GSU played a pivotal role by handling logistics, welcoming participants and guiding the day’s activities. Panelists, including seasoned actuaries, generously volunteered their time to answer questions and inspire students with their stories.

A Lasting Impact

The morning session drew 261 high school students, who left the event energized and curious about pursuing actuarial careers. In the afternoon, the focus shifted to 30 college students at GSU’s Perimeter College in Clarkston, where the discussion centered on exam preparation and professional development. One student was so inspired that they registered for their first actuarial exam immediately following the session!

Students and teachers alike expressed their gratitude for the event, many noting that it was their first exposure to the actuarial profession. The energy and enthusiasm were palpable, as students saw firsthand how their math skills could translate into a rewarding career.

This memorable event would not have been possible without the support and dedication of the volunteers, organizers and industry professionals who contributed their time and expertise. Together, we are shaping the future of the actuarial profession and inspiring the next generation to embrace its challenges and opportunities.

Statements of fact and opinions expressed herein are those of the individual authors and are not necessarily those of the Society of Actuaries, the editors, or the respective authors’ employers.

Marta Jimenez-Lutter is a manager of Student and Candidate Engagement at the Society of Actuaries. Marta can be reached at mjimenez-lutter@soa.org.

Stefanos Orfanos, FSA, CERA, is a clinical assistant professor and the Master of Actuarial Science program director at Georgia State University. Stefanos can be reached at sorfanos@gsu.edu.

Fang Yang, Ph.D., ASA, is a clinical associate professor and the director of the undergraduate Actuarial Science program at Georgia State University, as well as the 2025 chair for the SOA’s Education and Research Section. Fang can be reached at fyang10@gsu.edu.