Trishla Doshi

Discovering a passion for actuarial science

“My mum first heard about the MSc Actuarial Management course from a school friend and told me it was perfect for someone who loves maths. I was sixteen at the time. Like any curious teenager, I turned to the internet to find out more and what I read intrigued me. By eighteen, I’d decided to give it a try.”

Balancing university studies and actuarial exams was far from easy, but it was the intellectual challenge and problem solving that kept [Name] motivated. “Around 2019, I started researching master’s programmes around the world that offered exemptions from the UK actuarial institute. Once I came across Bayes Business School and saw its London location and reputation I was set on it. I even used the Unibuddy chat to speak to current students during my free periods at university.”

That same year, Trishla reached out to Professor Ioannis Kyriakou, Programme Director, to express their determination to study at Bayes. “I waited three long years, completed internships with Aon and Swiss Re, survived the uncertainty of the pandemic, and finally moved to London for my master’s in 2022. Receiving my degree certificate from Professor Kyriakou in 2023 felt like a full-circle moment.”

Choosing Bayes: an instinct that paid off

“Choosing Bayes Business School was instinctual at first, but over time, it became a well-researched and calculated decision. I spoke with professors and current students, and carefully studied the UK job market and London lifestyle.”

When the pandemic delayed their plans, Trishla chose to wait until in-person learning resumed. “My goal wasn’t just academic, I wanted cultural immersion and the full London experience. I came to Bayes to learn, but also to grow, explore, and build lifelong friendships.”

A challenging but fulfilling academic journey

“The course was intense, but deeply fulfilling. I was used to pressure from juggling actuarial exams and university studies, but what stood out at Bayes was the sense of community. Group coursework pushed me to collaborate, listen, and grow beyond perfectionism.”

Among their lecturers, David Hargreaves left a lasting impression. “He taught CP1 Part 1, and his unconventional teaching style made lectures unpredictable in the best way. I especially enjoyed coding in VBA to build a cashflow model for his coursework.”

Another highlight was the international FinTech elective in Novara, Italy. “Spending a week attending lectures abroad, and discussing coursework on a train to Lake Orta, made it unforgettable.”

Starting a career at Scor

After graduating, Trishla joined Scor’s UK and Ireland Protection Pricing team as a graduate trainee. “My role involves reinsurance pricing, collaborating with teams like marketing, data analytics and global pricing. On any given day, I could be knee-deep in client tenders or testing pricing models after an update. Lately, I’ve been developing pricing processes in Python and exploring automation improvements.”

The master’s degree has had a clear impact on their career. “Modules like SP2 (Life Insurance) and SP1 (Health and Care) strengthened my technical understanding, especially for term assurance and critical illness product pricing.”

Life lessons and lasting friendships

Beyond academics, Bayes and London shaped Trishla personally and professionally. “Because the cohort was so diverse, I gained a broader perspective on life and problem-solving. I learned to embrace my quirks, my love for adventure, and my big dreams.”

Those friendships have lasted long after graduation. “Two years on, I still have regular video calls with my former flatmate from Thailand. The people I met through Bayes have been some of the most impactful in my life.”

Living in London also sparked a spirit of adventure. “Last year, I went on my first solo trip to Barcelona, where I went skydiving. Since then, I’ve travelled to Nuremberg, Split, Vienna, Nantes, Paris, the Scottish Highlands and Athens. These experiences have pushed my limits and taught me so much about myself.”

Favourite memories from Bayes

“I have so many wonderful memories, but a few stand out. Every Tuesday in Term 2, I’d have lunch with a friend between lectures, it became our little ritual. I also loved studying in my favourite green chair in the library, where a friend once snapped one of my favourite photos. Walking home after classes with friends, laughing over pool and foosball games, and celebrating my birthday with cupcakes during exam season, these small moments made the year unforgettable.”

Advice to future students

“My advice is simple: don’t compare your journey to anyone else’s. The MSc Actuarial Management gives you space to choose your own path, whether through your SP subjects or international electives. Be open to trying something different, talk to people from other courses, and learn from them.”

“Take full advantage of Bayes’ diversity, both academic and cultural. Some of my most meaningful conversations were with people studying completely different subjects. The more you engage, the richer your experience will be.”