Derek Wallman began his collegiate career looking to become a civil engineer at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. It did not take long before he realized both his first choice in majors and schools might not be the most ideal for his long-term success.

Wallman, a Lincoln, Neb. native and Pius X high school graduate, decided that his talents and interest in math and business would be better suited to an actuarial science degree at his hometown school at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Wallman transferred to the UNL College of Business Administration this summer and began taking courses right away.

“I talked with a few actuaries in Omaha after my dad mentioned actuarial science,” Wallman said. “That’s a big reason why I decided to transfer. One of them talked about his job, and how he really seemed to enjoy it and all the perks that came with it. Plus I get to use math every day as an actuary.”

Wallman was also fortunate that all of his credit hours from UNO transferred smoothly as did his GPA.

“I learned that even some of my scholarship would transfer too,” Wallman said. “It just seems to be the right fit for me.”

The other obvious strength in transferring to UNL is that it is the only collegiate actuarial science program in the state of Nebraska, and the program is designated as a Center of Actuarial Excellence by the Society of Actuaries.

“As far as professors go, I have had nothing but great experiences so far! “ Wallman said. He also added that the campus layout and landscaping make UNL a great environment to learn and have a great time.

Wallman plans to graduate in two years with an actuarial science degree and up to three minors. After graduation, he plans on focusing on passing the actuarial science professional exams to become a fully qualified actuary.

In the meantime, Wallman plans on joining one of CBA’s 20 business student organizations and will also be looking into the actuarial science career fairs to participate in an internship program next summer. Published: July 31, 2012