Description: This article summarizes the second Simon Conference for young researchers in Actuarial Science, Risk Management, and Insurance, which took place at Michigan State University last November. The intent is to publicize the event and promote future participation in similar conferences of young researchers. The article will contribute to expanding the horizons of actuarial research performed by the academic community. Participation in the conference also gives professional development opportunity for practicing actuaries.

Description: This article describes a grant available to Ph.D. students. It is sponsored by the CANADIAN INSTITUTE OF ACTUARIES, CASUALTY ACTUARIAL SOCIETY, COLEGIO NACIONAL DE ACTUARIOS, A.C. AND SOCIETY OF ACTUARIES. The intent is to to encourage graduate students to complete research in actuarial science and to pursue academic actuarial careers in North America upon completion of a Ph.D. degree program.

Description: This month, Expanding Horizons had the opportunity to interview Tim Boonen, the winner of the Society of Actuaries’ (SOA’s) second Actuarial Science Early Career Award.

Description: Over the last two years, we experimented with online peer assessment platforms in undergraduate courses and saw them deliver major learning advantages and be highly popular with students. We explain why peer assessment shows great promise for actuarial science education and the main factors to consider when designing peer assessment activities. We also detail our use of online platforms in two undergraduate courses. By sharing our experience, we hope to provide you, our fellow educators, with a solid starting point for experimenting with this format.

Description: This article solicits exam question writers.

Description: Notes of the September 11. 2007 Education and Research Section Council Conference Call including discussion of the 2005 Halmstad Prize and the Expanding Horizons schedule.

Description: Actuarial science curricula at universities tend to focus on preparing students for academic and professional exams. In this article, I will share the value of student professional development and how it complements the technical skills taught in the classroom, using Temple University as an illustrative case study.

Description: This article previews the session on Predictive Modeling at the 2009 Spring meeting that is co-sponsored by the Education & Research Section and Health Section of the SOA.