“When people learn that I’m studying actuarial science, their first question is always: What is actuarial science?” says Yash Mittal, vice president of the Actuarial Society of Columbia University (ASCU) and a student in the M.S. in Actuarial Science program at Columbia University School of Professional Studies (SPS).
Raising awareness of the actuarial science profession, a blend of mathematics, statistics, and financial theory, and promoting student interest in the industry are among the chief goals of ASCU, which provides professional, academic, and social development opportunities to actuarial science students at Columbia.
In a recent conversation with SPS, Mittal and ASCU President Zixi Huang shared their approach to building a long-lasting network that empowers students to excel in their future careers.
A Hub for Career Growth and Community
Although it is still a relatively young organization, ASCU has rapidly expanded, launching initiatives that cater to both professional and academic needs. This past year, graduating seniors formalized the club by writing the ASCU constitution and introducing new events. Now, ASCU is focused on growing its presence through other platforms, including a brand-new website, which serves as a central hub for student resources and event announcements.
ASCU’s professional and academic development opportunities include weekly professional seminars featuring actuarial science experts from top companies, as well as career fairs and networking events to connect students with industry professionals. The club also offers study sessions with professors, making it easier for students to get their questions answered. Access to free coaching centers helps students prepare for their actuary certification exams. As part of ASCU’s academic support, the club conducts and shares research on job market trends and salaries to help students make informed decisions on specializations within the program, whether in property and casualty or life insurance.
Beyond academics and career development, the society actively cultivates a welcoming atmosphere, hosting social events for major holidays, including Chinese New Year and Halloween. “ASCU isn’t just a professional club; it's a long-lasting network of peers that will extend into our careers and social lives,” Zixi says.
Expanding Opportunities and Future Plans
This year, ASCU is set to roll out several new initiatives, including a newsletter summarizing key resources and events each semester. The first edition is set to be released in spring 2025, and preparations for the next issue have already begun.
Plans are underway for a special networking dinner to connect alumni, current students, and experts who have participated in the club’s professional seminars. ASCU hopes to feature notable industry leaders such as Adam Feit, director of New York Life Insurance, and Darryl Wagner, principal at Deloitte Consulting.
ASCU leadership is also considering becoming a chapter of Gamma Iota Sigma, a national professional society that promotes careers in insurance, risk management and actuarial science. This expansion could open doors for collaborations with SPS students in related degree programs such as wealth and insurance management. While ASCU remains focused on building a community within the actuarial science field, the club is excited about the possibility to build connections with a broader network of professionals in the future.
The Impact of ASCU on Its Leaders and Members
The field of actuarial science is primarily research-driven, so there isn’t always a strong sense of community between experts and aspiring professionals. ASCU aims to change that. “We want to create a very warm, welcoming environment that feels like a family,” says Zixi.
Yash echoed this sentiment, emphasizing how ASCU plays a crucial role in engaging students who might be hesitant to seek out resources on their own. “Many of the actuarial science students are quite shy,” he notes. “We make an effort to reach out directly, addressing their questions and connecting them to the resources they need.”
Beyond fostering connections, ASCU serves as a platform for promoting actuarial science itself. “I’ve always enjoyed sharing my passion and educating others on what the field really entails,” Yash says. As a niche discipline, many people don’t fully understand its scope. This is something ASCU strives to improve.
For both Zixi and Yash, leading ASCU has offered the opportunity to help fellow students develop professionally, academically, and socially. “I still remember our orientation, where many students were shy and found it difficult to connect with others,” Zixi says. They shared that seeing these same students grow and thrive with ASCU’s support has been an incredibly fulfilling experience.
Moreover, ASCU has provided its leaders with invaluable industry exposure. “As board members, we frequently get precious opportunities to meet and have discussions with industry leaders, executives, and managers,” Zixi says. These interactions have given them valuable industrial insights that might not have been accessible otherwise. Last year, for example, ASCU board members participated in the Actuarial Society of Greater New York conference, where they met key industry representatives and directors, including the president of the Society of Actuaries, the largest professional society for actuaries in the world.
Making the Most of ASCU
For new students at SPS, Yash’s advice is simple: “Take full advantage of every opportunity to explore your interests and jump-start your professional career.” He encourages students to attend ASCU events, utilize its resources, and gain a deeper understanding of actuarial science.
“If you’re curious about actuarial science and want to explore the field, we are always here to help,” he explains. That’s precisely why ASCU exists: to bridge the gap between students and the actuarial science field.
Most importantly, President Zixi reminds students to enjoy their time at Columbia. “It truly is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."
About the Program
The Master of Science in Actuarial Science program at Columbia University is internationally renowned for its breakthrough curriculum and esteemed faculty. The program equips students with the tools, skills, and knowledge to excel in today’s rapidly evolving actuarial and related workplaces, with a course of study designed to anticipate and exceed industry needs. Students are prepared to assume leadership positions and meet ever-expanding opportunities. Columbia’s location in New York City, the financial and actuarial capital of the world, allows students access to the world’s foremost practitioners and leaders.
The fall 2025 application deadline for the M.S. in Actuarial Science program is June 1. Learn more about the program here.
