With a sibling who had attended and graduated from MSOE, sophomore Cedarburg, Wisconsin native Samantha Doughty knew of the reputation and benefits of an MSOE education when it came time for her to decide on a university where she could pursue a degree in actuarial science.

“Something that I have always loved about MSOE is their small class sizes and the one-on-one attention I would receive in class,” said Doughty. “Along with this, MSOE's actuarial science program is ranked amazingly.”

As a student at MSOE, she has the opportunity to engage with her peers through over 100 student organizations and clubs that are offered. Doughty is a member of MSOE’s Student Government Association as well as the Math and Actuarial Science Club. Even as only a sophomore, she is able to sit in leadership positions in both organizations. She currently serves as the treasurer of Student Government as well as a chairperson of their food advisory committee where she helps students who have dietary concerns communicate them with campus dining services. For Math and Actuarial Science Club, she is the vice president of mentorship and social events. The club focuses on professional development, social engagement, community outreach and exam support.

“This year I was able to begin a mentorship program for incoming students, connecting them to experienced junior and senior students to help them through their journey with MSOE.”

Doughty is able to work closely with a tight-knit group of fellow actuarial majors through the club and her classes. To continue to grow her experiences, she has pursued internships. The summer before her sophomore year she was a Pension and Retirement Intern at Christian Brothers Services, a nonprofit insurance agency that provides services to religious institutions.

“It was an amazing opportunity, and I learned so much from the company. This year, I have accepted an internship with West Bend Insurance as a P&C Claims Intern. I am super excited for this opportunity and everything to come!”

As she continues her education and gains hands-on experiences through internships, Doughty is excited to seek out a role as an actuary in property and casualty insurance once she finishes her MSOE degree in 2027.

Doughty is grateful for all she has been able to experience so far as an MSOE student—engaging with her peers and the MSOE community, internship experiences and working in the Student Accounts Office on campus—none of which would be made possible without the Wisconsin Grant.

“The Wisconsin Grant has helped me attend MSOE with little worry about finances. Without this grant, I may have not been able to attend this school, which has been a dream of mine since high school.”