When Alumnus Chris McKeon was in his second semester of the program, he reflected on his experience as a student. Here is what he said:
With more than 20 years in the commercial P&C insurance industry and counting, I decided to pursue this program because I wanted to refresh my knowledge and update my skills in areas that weren’t taught when I first started in the industry, such as InsurTech innovations and data analytics.
I am now in my second semester, and I am really enjoying it. The courses are relevant to the industry issues of today with sharp focus on where the insurance industry is headed in the future. I’ve been very appreciative of our instructors as well, who have been incredibly accessible and giving with their time and knowledge. Not only am I learning about new and emerging areas of the industry, but I have even picked up a few techniques, such as an actuarial method for analyzing Probable Maximum Loss. I was surprised that with all my years in the business I'd never learned that method before. The courses have been done within a problem-based learning framework in an asynchronous format, which has been extremely helpful in allowing me to balance school, work, and family life.
From a coursework and topical perspective, the program has exceeded my expectations. It's been a pleasure to work with my fellow students and learn about their diverse backgrounds in the industry. Many of my classmates live and work overseas or on the opposite side of the United States. While I knew the virtual nature of the program allowed for a geographic spread of students, I didn’t realize all the benefits of it until I began the program. I am happy to say that having spent two semesters working with my cohort, several of my peers are now my friends.
Another positive surprise about the course is the opportunity to learn beyond the Insurance Management program itself. I have attended live-streaming events and webinars hosted by some of the other sixteen master’s programs within the School of Professional Studies and have been so impressed with what I’ve learned. I can now apply much of that knowledge at work and in my insurance courses. Beyond SPS, the University at large hosts a variety of events, and I’ve taken advantage of as many of them as possible. Not only have the events been fascinating or fun, but they’ve allowed me to make a connection to the University and other students, all while in a virtual environment.
All in all, the Insurance Management program has exceeded my expectations, and I’m very glad that I applied. I am beyond grateful to have been accepted and given the opportunity to be a part of the inaugural cohort. I am making the most of the program, and I hope many others will, too!
Learn more about the M.S. in Insurance Management program.
