Landing an actuarial internship can feel like a big hurdle, but one of the smartest moves you can make is to build a standout portfolio showcasing your skills and projects. A well-crafted actuarial internship portfolio not only demonstrates your technical abilities but also sets you apart from other candidates by telling a story about your problem-solving approach and eagerness to learn. For 2025 hiring success, focusing on the right types of projects can make all the difference.

Starting an actuarial internship is an exciting milestone, especially when you’re preparing for the SOA Exam FM. This exam tests your understanding of financial mathematics, a core skill in many actuarial roles, so pairing your exam prep with hands-on projects during your internship can make a huge difference. Tackling key projects before or alongside your FM exam not only boosts your technical skills but also makes you stand out to employers. Here are seven projects that can maximize your internship success and deepen your practical understanding of actuarial work.

If you’re an actuary, or aspiring to be one, you know that the field is competitive—employers aren’t just looking for exam passes and technical skills, but for well-rounded candidates who can bring fresh ideas, leadership, and real-world impact to their teams. That’s where your side projects and volunteer work come in. These experiences often reveal your passion, creativity, and ability to apply actuarial principles beyond the classroom or office. But here’s the catch: if you don’t present them effectively on your resume, they might get lost in the shuffle. Let’s talk about how to make your actuarial side projects and volunteer experiences stand out, so you get noticed for all the right reasons.