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Wednesday 1st August 2012
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updated 5.13pm, Wednesday 29th April 2020
This month's actuary of the future Jane Hamilton has come a long way from being a lifeguard in Disneyland Florida, but still looks back on her time in America as one of the greatest experiences of her life.

Employer and area of work
Prudential, actuarial business development.
How would your best friend describe you? She would probably comment on my judgmental attitude to dress-down Friday 'victims' at the office, but (hopefully) would also tell you I'm kind and thoughtful too.
What motivates you?
I always think on the positive side, and have goals to keep me going.
What would be your personal motto? Something along the lines of 'everything happens for a reason', but less cheesy and overdone.
Who do you most admire and why?
I most admire entrepreneurs who have the talent to create a successful business from a simple idea and a vision. The drive some people have to achieve is phenomenal.
What's your most 'actuarial' habit?
I love spreadsheets. Is that a habit? Regardless, Excel is genius.
How do you relax away from the office?
In the nice weather I love being outdoors walking, but in Scotland that doesn't come around as often as I would like! I love travelling too.
Alternative career choice?
I had a job to become an accountant lined up from university, but changed my mind at the last minute. I always thought forensic accounting would be interesting.
Tell us something unusual about yourself
I was a lifeguard in Walt Disney World in Florida for a summer while I was at university.
Greatest risk you have ever taken?
Moving to the United States on my own to work, then studying in New York for a year. Apart from a tiny blip (almost being stuck in Canada due to visa issues), it was the best experience I have had to date.
What's your most treasured possession? Old photographs will always make me smile.
If you ruled the world, what would you change first?
All dress-down Friday clothing must be approved by me first!
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