Alumni Spotlight: Nepal
Hi everyone, I am Som Raj Sharma, a soon-to-be graduate in Mathematical Sciences with a Major in Actuarial Science from the School of Mathematical Sciences, Tribhuvan University. I am a Global UGRAD 2021 Alumni Class Secretary from Nepal who completed his in-person exchange program in the fall semester of 2021 from the University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.
I have always believed that one needs to be a global citizen to be an informed professional. Retrospectively, UGRAD was one of the most terrific experiences I have ever had, distinguished meaningfully through my personal and professional growth. During this opportune time, I ended up exploring the state-of-the-art educational system in the U.S., learned various aspects of American culture, got trained to lead, enhanced my professional skills, and treasured unforgettable community service experiences.
I believe personal achievements are of little value if we do not give back to society from our achievements. That is the pathway for creating a beautiful world to live in. After returning from the U.S., I have been actively involved in giving back to our esteemed Global UGRAD family. I, along with the support and guidance from the Fulbright Commission in Nepal, coordinated the Global UGRAD Alumni Get Together in August 2022 to orient outgoing UGRADers, welcome Global UGRAD grantees who completed their exchange program and plan the outreach strategy for prospective applicants. Moreover, I have accepted an actuarial trainee position at Shikhar Insurance Company Ltd., the largest multi-line property and casualty insurer in Nepal, and have been appointed as an executive committee member of the Actuarial Society of Nepal (ASN), a non-profit organization representing qualified and trainee actuaries in Nepal. I have been assisting a local insurance regulator on Risk Based Supervision as well as training young actuarial aspirants through ASN’s working groups. I have been involved in discussions with the World Bank team on new solvency regulations and risk-based pricing in Nepal. Being an actuarial student aged 21 years with global experience, I have yet to contribute a lot towards the development of my country through the exaltation of the actuarial profession in Nepal.
I believe giving back to society is very much important when you are able. And I am trying to, day by day, with the opportunities I am blessed with.