Juggling a full-time job, university coursework, and actuarial exams all at once? It's not easy, but it is doable. Coaching Actuaries Campus Club Ambassador Tomas Clark breaks down the strategies that are keeping him on track.
The topic of balancing school, work, and exams is a never-ending one, and it's relevant to anyone aspiring to start a career in the actuarial field. The exam process is long, intense, and stressful, and when you're trying to balance all aspects of your life, it can be tough to give each area the time and attention it requires.
I'm currently facing this situation firsthand: studying for Exam FM, working full time in an actuarial role, and taking a vector calculus course. While it's a packed schedule, it is manageable for any student with the right approach.
Use a Structured Study Tool
First of all, use Coaching Actuaries to study for your exam. It provides a personalized plan to keep you on pace with the content, holds you accountable, and lets you schedule days off from studying. Having that structure built in makes a real difference.
While it's a packed schedule, it is manageable for any student with the right approach.
Plan Everything in Advance
Adding on to that, make sure to plan your work ahead of time. Breaking tasks into smaller, more manageable chunks prevents the burnout that comes from trying to do everything at once. A little planning goes a long way when your schedule is this full.
Take Regular Breaks
Finally, give yourself regular breaks. It's impossible to take on this much work effectively without stepping away from time to time. I've found that short walks are a great way to refresh your brain and preserve your sanity during long study sessions.
Any student in this situation can come out the other side successfully with the right resources, planning, and mental health strategy. Embrace the challenge, and don't forget to celebrate when you reach the finish line. Happy studying!
Embrace the challenge, and don't forget to celebrate when you reach the finish line.
About the Author
Tomas Clark is a third-year student studying mathematics and statistics at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. He is at the start of his actuarial journey, having passed Exam P in September 2025 with the help of Coaching Actuaries. He leveraged this achievement to land internships at Co-operators and Intact. Tomas is also an active member of his school's actuarial club and is running for president for the upcoming year. In his spare time, he enjoys learning languages.