Newbie Questions..

[chenama]

So I tried typing in VEE and searching for posts on the forums...nothing is coming up relevant to my questions so...

1. Is the VEE requirement an actual requirement, or is it just a guideline for what courses you should complete? Are they necessary for me to have? Is there a benefit as far as hiring would go, or can I get away without it and still be competitive?

2. I have a 3.2 QPA in my sophomore year, and I plan to get it up to atleast a 3.5 (graduate w/ honors) in finance. I'm also going to be a naval officer after college. Does a background in the military help your hiring chances? I'm also an URM (underrepresented minority..).

3. Any tips/suggestions in general? I've seen this board has some pretty cool people with great answers, and this field caught my eye.

Thanks in advance!:smiloe:

[JoJo2105]

Honestly, if you pass the exam, you should be able to get a job. I am a career-changer. I went to a seminar in college, and I met an Actuary. I LOVED everything she had to say about the career. She told me to just call up actuaries and talk to them at work. She said they would be willing to help a newcomer like myself. So, I did just that, and she was right. Several of them met me in person to have lunch and chat about the career. Some gave me business cards and said, "Call me when you pass. I may be able to help you get a job." I aloso met a recruiter for DW Simpson who told me if I pass in July he will guarantee me a job AND give me a $400 hiring bonus after 90 days. There is opportunity out there, you just have to PASS the exam. Focus on that. Call some actuaries. I swear, they will not be rude or hang up on you. I have found them very helpful and welcoming.