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Hannah Saar ’25, actuarial science and mathematics double major with a minor in economics, from Jersey Shore, Pa., overcame a major career obstacle during her junior year at Lycoming College by passing actuarial exam P, administered by the Society of Actuaries. The achievement — rarely attained on a student’s first attempt as the exam has only a 42.5 percent pass rate — will make her a very competitive candidate for employment.
But Saar’s higher education pursuits did not start off as smoothly: In her first semester at a different institution, she quickly became disillusioned with college. “The classes were very large and did not challenge me, so I did not feel incentivized to attend classes. It did not go well for me,” said Saar. The only other school that interested her was Lycoming College, so she transferred.
"Hannah will be well-positioned to pass the FM exam next year and is on a solid path toward a successful career as an actuary."
Saar knew early on that she wanted an education based in mathematics. She had briefly considered a career as a math teacher, but after discovering that teaching wasn’t for her, she switched gears to focus on actuarial science, a field that promises good work-life balance, attractive salaries, and a healthy job market.
“The classes here at Lycoming are much more demanding and I struggled to adapt,” she said, adding that she quickly learned that by attending classes regularly and taking advantage of the small class sizes, she was able to make connections with faculty and turn things around. Next year she’ll take two additional actuarial science classes that will prepare her for exam FM, also administered by the Society of Actuaries.
"Since transferring to Lycoming, Hannah has shown immense growth and ability to overcome adversity by stepping outside of her comfort zone. Her phenomenal work ethic is what has enabled her to pass exam P on her first attempt,” said Mike Smith, coordinator of the actuarial science program, assistant professor of mathematical sciences and chair of the department. “Hannah will be well-positioned to pass the FM exam next year and is on a solid path toward a successful career as an actuary."
The secret to success
“I made the decision to cut back a bit on my social life so I could prioritize my studies, practice every day, and really learn the material until it became intuitive. I asked questions and actively participated in class,” said Saar. “I put a lot of time into redoing the material until it became second nature and I could quickly and confidently complete the work. It really made a difference.”
After graduation, Saar’s goal is to begin a career as an actuary on the West Coast, an area that she’s visited and grown to love.
“I came to Lycoming believing that all schools are the same, but Lycoming is different,” she said. “All of the professors are very involved and you can tell that they care. Lycoming is also very inclusive and diverse, and feels very open. I absolutely love it!”