Actuarial science wasn’t something on junior Laynee Fry’s radar, but when she took AP Calculus, she was eager to find a future profession where she could use her knack for math in the day-to-day of her career. Fry diligently researched and spoke to an industry professional to find out that majoring in actuarial science could make that a reality.

“I spent just about two hours peppering him with questions about his profession, his college experience and his exam progress, which he answered very thoughtfully and thoroughly,” said Fry. “He spoke of his position with such passion and pride that by the time I hung up the phone, I knew it was the career for me, and I haven’t wavered since!”

When it came time to make a decision for college, Fry recalled her experience at a math competition held on MSOE’s campus early on in her high school career. With more research and seeing the small class sizes and student to professor ratio, Fry believed MSOE would be the right fit.

“I knew that MSOE would provide an environment in which I could foster personal relationships with my professors which would be very important as I navigated my career and worked my way through the professional SOA (Society of Actuary) exams.”

Those personal relationships have extended with her fellow actuarial science majors as the cohort is active in their support of one another, acting as resources for study sessions and as they eventually get ready to take their SOA exams.

“I love MSOE’s small, tight-knit campus, as I always feel like I’ll see a friendly face in the Campus Center or on the walk to class. It feels great to know that it is so easy to see my best friends and that I have such a great network of support and resources that is so easily accessible to me.”

Her involvement with her classmates doesn’t stop there. Fry serves as the president of MSOE’s Math and Actuarial Science Club. The club focuses on professional development, social engagement, community outreach and exam support. Each month, they work to host a variety of events in each of those areas such as volunteering in the Milwaukee area, hosting industry professionals to guide them in the actuarial recruitment process, mentorship programs and more. She is also vice president of Lambda Zeta Nu sorority and works in the Raider Center for Academic Success (RCAS) as a Success Ally.

Through her experience as an Actuarial Leadership Development Program (ALDP) intern at Travelers Insurance in Hartford, Connecticut, Fry expanded her technical skills working on insurance policies for small business workers compensation policies. She has already secured an internship with Deloitte this upcoming summer and looking ahead to post graduation, would love to specialize in marine, travel, event or cybersecurity insurance at a prestigious firm on the country's east or west coast.

Fry is originally from Sussex, Wisconsin and although she isn’t too far from home, she enjoys life in the city and spends her free time finding a new, local coffee shop to visit. She also loves going for runs, cooking, crafting and reading.