Alumni Story: Tyler Weiss
Underwriter, Chubb Insurance Company
what are you currently doing?
I am currently an Underwriter for Chubb Insurance Company. I handle insurance for personal products, so homeowners insurance, automobile insurance, etc.
How did you get here?
I had an internship the summer going into my senior year at KU at a State Farm agency. I continued my internship through the school year and ended up getting hired there full-time upon graduation. Two years after graduation, I changed jobs and started at Chubb as an Underwriter where I still am today. During my time at Chubb so far, I took the opportunity to continue my education and obtained an MBA with a concentration in Management from DeSales University in an evening/online program. This wasn't required for my job at all, but just something I wanted to do to help continue my education and help separate myself from others as my ultimate goal is to go into management.
How did KU prepare you?
There are many experiences I had that helped prepare me for my career. This is a common theme for me, but the main thing is listening to others and asking questions. I enjoyed going to various talks from various industry professionals coming in to talk about what they do. It helped me navigate a plan for what industry I wanted to pursue post-graduation. As for what I did as an undergraduate that set me apart from others, I'd say I was very driven to work hard, and help/volunteer whenever possible. I enjoyed being involved in various clubs, etc. It helps build your brand and your network.
Advice for current students?
Get involved, ask questions, listen to others, and gain as much experience as you can. Start to plan out what you're looking for upon graduation, and then beyond that. Understand, though, that this could very well change, and change is totally normal. Look for opportunities and room for growth post-graduation. As for what I'd do differently if I was in college now, this is a tough question. I'd probably try to go to as many talks on campus as I could to listen to others and what they currently do in their role. I'd try to shadow as many individuals as I could. All in all, gaining experience and listening to others in certain roles helps give you the best information about that potential career.
Trends to focus on?
The insurance industry is always changing especially with technology advancing and various weather pattern changes and more severe storms. I feel the opportunities in the insurance industry are endless. I'd say my most valuable skills in my career are being able to multi-task, organization, communicating effectively and professionally, prioritize work and meet deadlines, and asking questions to fully understand the "why" on various items (why we do something a certain way, why a coverage we provide is the way it is, etc.).
Key Takeaway?
A KU math degree builds versatile problem solvers. Stay curious, seek experience, and never stop learning. Every opportunity helps you grow both personally and professionally.