Non-Life Actuarial Summer Intern Review

There are a variety of projects on offer across the team in Pricing, Reserving and Capital. I was assigned a project in Pricing which I worked on for the majority of the internship, and it involved using software to build statistical models for calculating the risk of a certain event happening to an individual (think motor insurance, pet insurance, home insurance).

I feel that I've developed my teamwork skills, as I've worked together with multiple different people on projects, and my technical skills as I've had to learn how to use new software. The biggest thing that I've gained from the internship has probably been gaining a better idea of what actuarial work involves, and a sense of commercial awareness which is difficult to get without being immersed in the environment.

Yes, I was assigned a project where I had the opportunity to explore new techniques and models. My feedback helps with development of these within the company and I feel like I've been useful on the internship. It must be said that I was offered the support I needed as well, so it was a good balance of getting responsibility while not being left completely on my own.

Multiple training sessions were arranged as part of the intern programme and gave me exposure to different areas of the actuarial world, as well as giving me key technical skills (learning new software). My line manager and buddy were both very supportive and helped me to get what I wanted from the internship, and the culture is very much collaborative so I felt comfortable asking everyone for help when I needed it.

The culture is very relaxed, people are very friendly and welcoming and are happy to help if you have any questions. There are regular social events at the different offices (for example, we had an after-work Olympics) and workshops held for all colleagues to discuss topics relating to inclusion, such as how to make new joiners feel welcome. Respect is a core value and diversity is celebrated within the company.

I really enjoyed my internship, it helped me to gain an invaluable perspective on the actuarial world. I appreciate the opportunity to have met so many amazing people throughout, and it’s allowed me to network and learn a lot as well as simply enjoy getting to know new people. Lastly, the work that I’ve been doing has felt like a good use of my time, and has increased my level of confidence substantially.

Yes

Think about what skills the job you’re applying for will require, and come up with two to three examples of how you’ve demonstrated each skill. Use the STAR technique to explain this to the interviewer. Do research on WTW beforehand and think about what about the role and WTW interests you. Do research on key challenges and opportunities facing the industry you want to go into, and what your opinion is on them.