SUMMER 2024 WORK

1. Develop advanced data analysis skills using tools like Excel and SQL to efficiently analyze risk-related data.

2. Develop Risk Assessment Techniques. Gain a deeper understanding of risk assessment methodologies and how they apply to the insurance industry, including both qualitative and quantitative techniques.

3. Improve proficiency in developing tools and software solutions that aid in underwriting processes, with a focus on automation and efficiency.

4. Gain a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of underwriting and insurance, including policy development, pricing, and risk management.

5. Learn to effectively integrate computer science skills with business acumen to contribute to innovative solutions in the insurance industry, enhancing both technical and business expertise.

My goals included developing advanced data analysis skills using tools like Next.js, Node.js, Excel and SQL, improving my proficiency in developing tools and software solutions, and gaining a deeper understanding of risk assessment techniques. These are directly connected to the core functions of my role in underwriting and risk management. I took a strategic approach to integrating my computer science expertise with essential insurance industry practices. I planned to do this before ever stepping foot in the building as I knew it would be of value to both me and the company.

I aimed to enhance several skills during my work term, focusing on advanced data analysis, risk assessment techniques, and the development of automated tools for underwriting processes. I leveraged tools like Next.js/Node.js, Excel and SQL to analyze risk-related data efficiently, gaining proficiency in both software and the critical assessment of complex information. 

These skills are immensely beneficial for my next work experience as they allow me to handle complex data sets, develop insights from data analysis, and implement technological solutions effectively. The ability to automate and improve efficiency in business processes is highly transferable and valued across industries, enhancing my future career opportunities. Moreover, the integration of technical skills with business acumen prepares me to offer innovative solutions that can significantly impact business outcomes, making me a versatile asset in any technology-driven role.

I was keen on working with technologies like SQL, Excel, and React (or any framework for that matter) during my internship because these tools are integral to handling and analyzing data efficiently in the insurance industry. SQL and Excel are foundational for any data analysis work, allowing for the manipulation and interpretation of large datasets to derive actionable insights. Meanwhile, Next.js and Node.js are powerful in building scalable and efficient applications.

Using these technologies aligns with my goals to enhance my data analysis skills and to develop automated tools for the underwriting processes. They also allow me to bridge my technical knowledge with practical, industry-specific applications, strengthening my solutions and making them applicable to real-world business scenarios. This experience not only deepened my technical expertise but also enriched my understanding of how technology can drive business improvements, particularly in industries reliant on data-driven decision-making like insurance.

Reflecting on my goals for the work term, I can confidently say that I achieved several key goals. I successfully developed advanced data analysis skills using tools like Excel and SQL, which were instrumental in analyzing risk-related data efficiently. This not only enhanced my technical capabilities but also allowed me to contribute more effectively to the team's needs.

I also made strides in understanding and applying risk assessment methods, gaining both qualitative and quantitative insights that are crucial for the insurance industry. This deepened my appreciation for the complexities of risk management and the importance of nuanced decision-making.

Moreover, I improved my proficiency in developing tools and software solutions that aid in underwriting processes, focusing on automation and efficiency. The creation of the insurance premium rater using Next.js and Node.js was a testament to this, allowing underwriters and brokers to generate reliable premium estimations quickly.

However, while I developed a foundational understanding of underwriting and insurance principles, including policy development and risk management, I feel there’s still room to expand this knowledge. Insurance policies and regulatory frameworks are complex and demand a lot of exposure and experience to fully understand and master. Similarly, integrating computer science skills with business acumen to contribute to innovative solutions in the insurance industry was partially achieved. While I developed several technical solutions that impacted business processes, continually refining the blend of technical skills with business strategy is an ongoing process that requires more real-world application and mentoring.

Overall, my successes have set a strong foundation for future learning and professional development, and the areas where I faced challenges have outlined clear paths for focus in my future experiences.