Hi I'm a noob and need help

[noob]

I decided late (like after I graduated college) to become an actuary, and so I wasn't able to get involved with any internships or the like.

I just passed SOA Probability test and I'm working on my VEE's and the next upcoming tests.

I'm wondering what kind of job opportunities can someone in my position actually have a chance of landing?

Thanks,
A noob

[BeanCounter]

Depend on if you are willing to relocate. Some companies may hire people without even passing the first exam.

[noob]

I'll relocate if need be. The problem is every single job seems like it wants some kind of work experience or internship, even if it doesn't require any tests. I was just looking via the SOA site and it was very discouraging

[BeanCounter]

I know how that feels. I can't land a job after passing P, FM, MFE and very likely MLC in recent sitting. Not many companies need actuary in my town.

Did you try those consulting firms like Aon, Marsh, Towers Watson?

[Irish Blues]

Passed P and working on VEE's? Congrats, you're in the same pool as about 6,000 other people ... maybe more. You need to knock out FM at a minimum; knocking out the VEE's would be even better.

[noob]

I'm taking FM Feb 2013, and I should also be done with my last VEE then as well.

I can combine a college applied statistics course with an ACTEX online Time Series course, right? And likewise, AP Macroeconomics with ACTEX online Microeconomics?

I guess I'll just sit out the job search until then, and maybe get a little head start on the rest of the preliminary exams too.

Thanks for the help.

[Irish Blues]

Check your college and classes against this list: http://www.soa.org/Files/edu/edu-vee-dir-approved-courses.pdf
The standardized exam list: http://www.soa.org/education/exam-req/resources/edu-vee-approved-courses.aspx

If your class is on there, it's been approved for a VEE exemption (meaning, if you take the class and pass it with the minimum required grade, you can apply and get credit for it).

[noob]

Yep I already checked that list, so I should be eligible for VEE credits. The whole thing about having to apply for both economics at the same time just sorta confused me, but I guess that's fine.

Also, are VEE grades important, or is it mostly just an "either you have it or you don't thing"?

I feel like I can manage getting an A+ in all of the courses if I put in a lot of time, but I could also be putting that time into preparing for the exams...

[BeanCounter]

Yes, you either get VEE credit or not.

[noob]

Yes, you either get VEE credit or not.

So potential employers really won't give a damn what grade you get? That's helpful to know.