Set yourself apart from the competition - get some work experience.

These days recruiters are looking for much more than an excellent academic record. That's why work experience can give you the edge. It shows initiative, drive and determination, and your ability to use what you've learnt in real life situations. Many actuarial employers actively encourage internships, and often use them as opportunities to evaluate suitable candidates for possible future positions.

Three ways to get work experience/internship

1. Make an application
First, download the List of Actuarial Employers [pdf] which includes employers currently offering internships. Application information is detailed in the guide, as well as links to each employer's website. The Inside Careers -  Actuaries guide has further information on CVs, making an application and the interview process.

2. Talk to a careers adviser
Your University Careers Service has a wealth of information from actuarial recruiters. Also, they offer one-to-one guidance, CV workshops and details of future recruitment events.

3. Get in through the back door
If you're struggling to find an actuarial work placement, it is often worthwhile approaching large insurance companies for general office–based work experience – like filing, administration and data entry. Although this may not be the kind of experience you had in mind, it's an ideal opportunity to gain a useful insight into the workings of the insurance industry. Once you've established yourself, mention that you have a particular interest in actuarial work – and see where it takes you.