International student workshop 03/01/2016 Penn State Actuarial Science Club Club Website:

Big Picture America Cons : expensive visa sponsorship & competitive ProsPros : #1 job & various work fields & easier to get a job than other majors China Pros : high demand in the long run Cons : faster speed to become an actuary in China & master/IVY preferred India/ Korea ?

Smeal Resource BA297A (Recommended for Sophomore) Eberly Resource BOA service center General Resources

Education GPA (cumulative & major bold them if high)bold them if high An indicator of how well you do in school A requirement of jobs or grad school Major (double major?) Double major is a plus but careful with GPA No need to force yourself to do double major Minor (can be diversified) Show your passion to learn Reveal your interest Actuarial Exams At least one to find an internship 2-4 for FT Not the more the better Don’t be a nerd. Extracurricular matters!!!!!!!!

Activities/Leadership Clubs Volunteer It is never too late to start Be confident & be yourself (easy to say but hard to do) Find where your PASSION is (what drives you)PASSION If afraid, start with philanthropic orgs (the idea of community) Clubs focus on diversity is a good choice (diversity is the trend) Show up at events (show your bravery& willingness to try) Pros and Cons of orgs like CSSA/ Penn KSA Dedicated to at least one club to make contribution ( your ability & achievement) Figure out how to influence others without authority ( leverage other’s strength) Think in English Understand US culture Build your own brand

Related Work Experience A lot of job opportunities are WAITING for youjobopportunities Teamwork is much appreciated Prepare good examples and stories Think about the way you describe it One is better than nothing

Communication skills Write formal , share your perspective with others, You have to learn from daily life through activities or work experience Software Excel VBA SAS R Python SQL Skills

Graduate School Common questions 1. GRE/ GMAT and GPA which is more important? 2. Does school activities matter? How important it is comparing to grades? 3. Do you have any recommended program? 4. How can I get a reference letter?

For interns —CPT(Curricular Practical Training)CPT Eligibility (a full-time basis for one academic year) Need to take RM395/SC294/STAT496(cost almost $1400) No need to worry about the process For Full Time jobs —OPT(Optional Practical Training)OPT usually 12 months, STEM 17 months moreSTEM an additional year of OPT at each higher degree level (i.e. Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD.) No job offer needed —H1BH1B Green card Immigration law changes but we will keep you posted! Visa Issues

Q & A Thanks for coming