I want to be an actuary because:

1.) I like math

2.) I’m good at math

3.) Actuaries make good money

4.) It’s a relatively low stress job

5.) I like business

6.) There aren’t that many actuaries

 

I got an 800/800 on the math part of the SAT (780 out of 800 on the SAT II’s) and came #1 in my school for the AMC math contest. I’m pretty good at sciences and stuff but math has always been my favorite class since I’m good at it. The problem is that no matter what I think, my parents always end up saying that a doctor is the only good job out there. I can see what they mean. In the upcoming years with all of the baby boomers in America, it is expected that the need for doctors will increase even more and there are already too few doctors out there. Also, the job is very exclusive; doctors are protected by various medical association so foreign doctors can’t just come here and practice. They also make a large amount of money, have great job security, and are on top of that well-respected people. The problem is, I don’t particularly like biology. Becoming a doctor seems very intimidating- especially if I don’t love what I see. My parent won’t force me to be anything of course, but they are adamant that nothing trumps being a doctor-NOTHING. Any profession I come up with, ANY PROFESSION, they (especially my dad) shoot it down. I need some advice here people. Any and all input will be appreciated.

I personally think you should pursue the education you want and that you are inspired about.  It's your career and your potential happiness.  It's also many years of very hard work, long late hours, and a lot of stress to be at a university, which is all the more reason to make it what you want it to be.  That you are interested in continuing your education and have a chance to do it is what's important.  Another thing is that you could get a math degree and then opt to do the pre-med classes.  MD's have various undergrad degrees, not just biology oriented ones.

 Do what you want and tell your parents to get lost.

Having two sons in college, I would tell you to get your general education take several different classes and then decide. My boys both changed their majors a few times before really finding what they love to do. Good luck.

 

As for Generalcustard advice: to tell your parents to get lost................do not be a fool like he no doudt is.

When I was young, I told my parents that I wanted to be a comedian. But they just laughed at me. Well, I showed them. They are not laughing now.