Benjamin Siedel Rises to the Challenge of Actuarial Leadership

Benjamin Siedel has achieved something he never expected from himself. When he first arrived at McMaster three years ago, joining student groups wasn’t even on his radar. Yet today, he is president of the McMaster Actuarial Society (MAS), and he says he can’t imagine it any other way.

“Being part of student groups was never really my thing. But I wanted to make a meaningful impact at Mac, and this was a perfect way to do that,” Benjamin explained. Now, he can’t imagine his university experience without it. Leading MAS has become something he’s incredibly proud of, especially because of the positive influence it allows him to have in the community.

As president, Benjamin plays an instrumental role in supporting fellow students pursuing actuarial science. He organizes events that provide reassurance and clarity for students navigating their academic and career paths.

“I remember what it was like to doubt whether the degree I chose was right for me,” Benjamin shared. “During my first year, I was constantly thinking about how to set myself up for success, both in co-op and during exam season.”  Drawing from his own experience, Benjamin feels it’s his responsibility to share his knowledge and help others who might be going through similar challenges. His goal is simple: to make the university experience smoother for students who need it – and he’s doing just that.

Benjamin says one of the highlights of his presidency is the sense of community he’s helped build. From his MAS team to professors, students, industry professionals, and the Science Careers & Experience Centre staff, he has created a diverse network of people who share a passion for actuarial science.

Benjamin is immersed in almost every aspect of actuarial science at McMaster. Beyond his leadership role in MAS, he’s a dedicated co-op student and contributes to the Actuarial Career Test Drive Program. He’s also a mentor for students in Actuarial & Financial Math, making an effort to support students as they navigate the process of job searching and networking.

Between co-op, industry projects, and case competitions, Benjamin says his work-integrated learning experiences have been nothing short of transformative. “My first co-op was an eight-month work term at Workplace Safety and Insurance Board, where I gained valuable experience in data integrity and valuation. It gave me a better understanding of what it takes to be an actuary and highlighted the importance of bridging the gap between academics and the professional world of actuarial science.

Benjamin also participated in his first-ever case competition last semester, hosted by the Science Careers & Experience Centre*. “It was an unmatched experience. It felt like a condensed version of my co-op, all packed into a single day. It was challenging, but I can’t wait to do more.”

Somehow, Benjamin still finds time for extracurriculars. He shared his passion for intramural sports, explaining that staying active is the best way for him to unwind. His favourites include volleyball, ultimate frisbee, and innertube water polo, and he’s also joined the occasional soccer team.

But Benjamin’s journey wouldn’t be the same without the support of his family, friends, and the McMaster staff. He specifically credits his parents as role models, the friends who have become inspirations to him, and the team at the Science Careers & Experience Centre.

“Dan Manns has done so much to help me. It all started in my second year when he was interviewing me during co-op admissions. I remember being so nervous. But he was so nice and pleasant, which helped to calm my nerves. Ever since then, he’s made the effort to check up on me and ask how school or work is going. And what blows my mind is that he does this for every student he works with. He remembers everything about everyone and is always solving problems and offering solutions to students in need,” said Benjamin.

What ties all his experiences together are the lessons they’ve taught him: the importance of networking, staying involved, and getting out of your comfort zone.

When Benjamin first envisioned himself becoming president, he recognized that his resume had a lot of room to grow. Fast forward to today, where he has not only built an impressive resume but has also become a leader among his peers. From the nervous co-op interview to leading as president, Benjamin’s story is still unfolding.

*Case competition supported by the Business + Higher Education Roundtable (BHER) is a non-partisan, not-for-profit organization that brings together Canada’s top companies and leading post-secondary institutions to tackle skills, talent, and economic challenges. Since 2015, BHER has connected, convened, and leveraged the power of its members to create opportunities for post-secondary students and workers, boost innovation, and drive collaboration. Learn more at www.bher.ca and see their work-integrated learning resources for ways to explore, invest in, and create quality WIL opportunities.