Andrew Maas, Campus Club Ambassador at Milwaukee School of Engineering, shares how he balances academics, work, and leadership as a second-year actuarial science student.
Balancing school, studying, and personal life as an actuarial science student is something I'm still trying to figure out, especially now, in my second year. Between a demanding course load, exam preparation, work, and leadership responsibilities, my schedule fills up fast. While it's not always easy, I've learned that balance isn't about doing everything perfectly. It's about making the most of your time.
Balance isn't about doing everything perfectly. It's about making the most of your time.
Staying on Top Academically
Actuarial science requires consistency. Classes build on each other, and falling behind even a little leads to snowballing quickly. I've learned that spreading studying out over the week works better for me than cramming.
Setting aside specific times for homework and exam prep helps me stay on track and reduces stress. I like to treat studying like a job. I set an amount of time where I don't allow any distractions. When I'm doing it, I'm focused, and when I'm done, I move on.
I like to treat studying like a job.
Making Limited Time Work
Outside of class, I often work after school, which forces me to be realistic about what I can accomplish in a day. In a surprisingly good way, having limited time actually makes me more efficient. I plan my days ahead of time, prioritize deadlines, and accept that some days won't go exactly as planned, which I have learned is okay.
Leadership and Soft Skills
I'm also the Vice President of Exam and Education for the Gamma Iota Sigma chapter at MSOE, which has been both rewarding and challenging. The role keeps me connected to other actuarial students and motivated to stay disciplined with exam-related goals. At the same time, it's taught me how to manage responsibility and communicate clearly. These soft skills are just as important as technical knowledge.
Balance is about knowing when to push and when to step back … Growth happens in both.
Not Forgetting Personal Life
Maintaining a personal life matters too. Whether I'm spending time with friends, relaxing, or just taking a break, those moments help me reset and avoid burnout. Balance is about knowing when to push and when to step back. I know that growth happens in both.
About the Author
Andrew Maas is a sophomore at the Milwaukee School of Engineering and the Coaching Actuaries ambassador for his Gamma Iota Sigma chapter. As an aspiring actuary, he is working toward his ACAS and FCAS credentials with the goal of becoming an invaluable member of a team and helping the next generation of actuaries succeed. Outside of academics, Andrew gives back to his hometown community by volunteering with the local athletic booster club, where he helps with events and fundraisers. He also brings a unique background to his actuarial studies — with over eight years of experience in the concrete and construction industry, he still dedicates around a thousand hours a year to perfecting his craft.