Anyone working with a BA in math?

Beginner Joined: Dec 01 2009 Posts: 21

I feel like I've wasted 3 years in college. I majored in math/actuarial studies and minored in finance. Obviously my goal is to become an actuary, but I am not able to take the exams at the moment. I'm hoping to find a decent job with what I have. Anyone out there with the same qualifications and has a math-involved job? Part time? If so, what? I'd like to know what my options are. *I don't want to teach. Thanks :)

I know this isn't the answer you are looking for but DH majored in computer science, minored in math. He's an actuary. Just take the exams and go for it!

My sister has her Masters and works for the government. I'm not sure if she would have gotten in with her BA.

I know someone in the same boat as you, though. She got a job editing math textbooks. Where do you live?

Beginner Joined: Dec 01 2009 Posts: 21

Thanks, NY.
I need to start working now. Can't wait for masters or exams.

Start studying for the first exam while you are looking for work. You never know. If c"v nothing comes up on the work front, at least you will be able to sit for an exam in the spring.

Platinum Member Joined: Nov 01 2009 Posts: 8212

My friend taught math.

EDIT: I missed the "I don't want to teach" line.

Have you thought of applying to power companies that buy/sell power? They need math brains. Con Ed hires people for that.
_________________
Never mistake activity for achievement.

MY cousin is an actuary. full time, but she can work from home, after being with them for some time.

Posted: Wed, Dec 01 2010, 5:52 pm Post subject:

do you not want to teach because you're not interested? or is it because of the money or other reasons?

Beginner Joined: Dec 01 2009 Posts: 21

I don't enjoy it.

Beginner Joined: Dec 01 2009 Posts: 21

do you know of people actually doing math jobs for these power companies? if so, did they need a masters?

Silver Member Joined: Mar 26 2009 Posts: 947

What about working in a bank?

At least in Israel, they are always looking for Math graduates (Or Finance, Economics etc.)

Platinum Member Joined: Nov 01 2009 Posts: 8212

Beginner Joined: Dec 01 2009 Posts: 21

Good idea. What would those specific job titles be?

Diamond Member Joined: Dec 28 2005 Posts: 4655

I was under the impression that you could start working as an actuary even before taking the exams (as long as you intend to take them). In any event, I am sure you tried that venue.

Hatzlacha - please don't feel like you wasted years in college; it sounds to me like you went for a pretty practical field.

Active Poster Joined: Nov 25 2008 Posts: 84

Yes. I'm a programmer, and am getting my Master's in Applied Math as we speak.

BA in Math isn't so typical, and there are very few "Looking for someone with a BA in math" job postings out there. However, there's a lot of fields that can use mathematicians. With a background in finance, there's a ton you could be doing!

If you really enjoy math, make sure you get that across in your cover letter/goals. Let them know you enjoy the challenge of it, and you enjoy problem solving. Analytical skills can apply to just about any science, and as I mentioned, with a finance background you're a shoo-in to plenty of companies.

Feel free to PM me (or post here) if you want any advice. I did the job hunting thing a while back and it wasn't fun, but with Hashem's help and your hishtadlus, things will straighten out soon!

Beginner Joined: Dec 01 2009 Posts: 21

Thanks!

Quants and risk management usually require familiarity with C++, just for your info.