Master of Professional Studies in Insurance Management student Karibe Ibeh’s career journey hasn’t always taken the most traditional route.
After completing his bachelor’s degree in health science and public health from Northeastern University, Karibe pursued impactful work at the YMCA of Greater Boston in food insecurity initiatives, where he leveraged private and government partnerships to help provide millions of meals to households and children experiencing food insecurity.
Interested in pivoting to a career in finance that offered growth, Karibe sought guidance from industry mentors and found his fit in insurance management. He's currently focused on becoming a transactional risk underwriter and values the industry’s dynamic challenges.
Karibe is also a recent recipient of the prestigious Spencer Scholarship from the Spencer Educational Foundation, recognizing his potential as a future leader in risk management and insurance. He says he plans to leverage the scholarship to maximize his educational experience at Columbia and propel his career forward, supported by mentors like M.P.S. in Insurance Management Program Director Teresa Chan.
In a recent chat, Karibe shared his journey to receiving this prestigious award and what advice he would give to other students interested in pursuing a career in this field.
How did you first become interested in insurance management?
As a lifelong learner, I sought a career that was rigorous and valued creative problem solving. I also wanted to pivot to a career in finance that was client-facing, had growth opportunity, and greater work-life balance. I was given advice from a mentor in the industry to explore a career in the insurance industry.
After consulting several insurance professionals, I concluded that the industry would be a right fit for my professional and personal ambitions. I immediately applied to Columbia's M.P.S. in Insurance Management program.
What are your career aspirations within the fields of insurance management?
I am a transactional risk underwriter. We underwrite complex insurance products, and I find it engaging as there are always opportunities to learn something new.
Can you share any challenges you've faced on your path to pursuing this career, and how you've overcome them?
Insurance is a massive industry, and it can sometimes feel opaque. I have felt overwhelmed at times charting a long-term plan because this industry is constantly evolving. My education and support system at Columbia allow me to feel well equipped to navigate this journey.
What motivated you to apply for the Spencer Scholarship? Could you describe the significance of the Spencer Scholarship in your academic and professional journey?
The Spencer Educational Foundation is a prestigious organization that provides scholarships to future leaders in the Risk Management and Insurance Industry. The application process was robust and comprehensive and included a written essay. I spent weeks on the application and wrote many drafts before submitting my application.
I was extremely excited and grateful to learn that I was awarded the Spencer Scholarship. I understood the low likelihood of being selected as a scholarship recipient and I am glad they saw the potential I see in myself.
The scholarship will have a major impact on my academic and professional career. These funds will assist my tuition payment and alleviate some financial stress on my family. Spencer also has an expansive network of insurance and risk management professionals that I can lean on for navigating career decisions thoughtfully.
What advice would you give to other students interested in pursuing a career in this field?
I believe the insurance industry is ripe for new graduates or professionals seeking to pivot to a different career. It is a large industry that requires various skill sets and expertise. Artificial intelligence will play a significant role in how carriers operate in the next decade. This is a very exciting industry and I advise students to look into it.
About the Program
The Master of Professional Studies in Insurance Management is for career professionals who want to accelerate their advancement to leadership positions or broaden their expertise in the industry. It accommodates both professionals already working in insurance and those looking to make a career change. The program is part-time, online, and instruction is asynchronous to accommodate working professionals.
