Tuesday Transformation - Kent Straker

Senior Actuarial Analyst, ICBL

Who is Kent Straker?

I am an easy going 25 year old husband and travel enthusiast. I also enjoy sports, spending time with my family and friends, and watching videos about investing, real estate and money. I attended the S.D.A primary and Secondary schools before going to 6th form and the University of the West Indies, where I studied Actuarial Science. Being active in my local church has been a big part of my life from the time I was about 15 years old. Today, I serve as the Youth Leader and an Elder in Training, and also serve as the Vice President of the Board of Directors of the Barbados S.D.A Credit Union.

What does a typical day for someone in this profession involve (Actuarial Science)?

Typically my days consist of dealing with lots of spreadsheets, numbers and calculations. I am always looking at large amounts of data and trying to determine how much risks we are willing to take and how much we need to charge the client.

Why did you choose to pursue a career in Actuarial Science?

Honestly, I was not sure what I wanted to do as I neared the end of secondary school. I was fortunate to have an excellent Guidance Counselor (Ms. Griffith from the Barbados SDA Secondary school) who noticed my affinity for mathematics and encouraged me to research Actuarial Science. Additionally, my mother also happened to work with a few Actuaries and she thought that Actuarial Science would be a good fit for me. Finally, the severe lack of Actuaries in the Caribbean meant that I would have less people to compete with for job opportunities.

What advice would you give someone who is interested in pursuing a career similar to yours?

Be prepared for years of very difficult exams, even after University. However, if you start the exams while in school, it will give you a great advantage.

How can an aspiring Actuarial professional become qualified?

Completing a degree in Actuarial Science or Mathematics is preferable but not necessary. After which, simply sign up for your actuarial exams online, study, then take the exams. Visit beanactuary.com to get an idea of what it takes to become a qualified Actuary.

What keeps you motivated?

My family, my long term goals and God. I do what I do so that I can take care of those I care about and to help me reach financial independence as soon as I can. Also, I see it as my Christian duty to maximize the talents that I have been fortunate enough to be entrusted with.

KFC, Chefette or Burger King. One has to go.

I very seldom eat fast food, but definitely Burger King, everything is a little too salty.