What Do Careers in Insurance Actually Look Like?

What does a career in risk management and insurance, specifically in underwriting, claims, or insurance brokerage, actually look like day to day? For many students, these roles can feel a bit unclear, but they’re at the core of how the insurance industry works.

Earlier this month, MyPath brought together early-career professionals from each of these paths to share their experiences and insights. This session was designed for college students exploring careers in risk management and insurance. If you’re curious about where a career in risk management and insurance could take you, their perspectives offer a helpful starting point.

There’s No One Path Into Insurance

The conversation, moderated by Randy Jouben, Risk Manager for Fairfax County Government, featured Lauren Angelina (AXA XL), Chelsey Boyle (Tokio Marine HCC), and Nicholas Zacharopoulos (Lockton). Each panelist took a different path into the industry—but one theme came through clearly: there’s no single “right” way to get started.

Some entered through risk management programs or internships, while others came from entirely different majors. One panelist, who studied English, shared how writing and analyzing texts translated into reviewing claims—breaking down complex information, asking the right questions, and building a clear understanding of what happened in a loss scenario. It’s a good reminder that the skills you’re building now may apply in ways you don’t expect.

What Do Underwriters, Claims Professionals, and Insurance Brokers Do?

In simple terms, underwriters evaluate risk, claims professionals investigate and manage losses, and brokers help clients find and structure the right insurance coverage.

The panel then brought these roles to life by sharing what their day-to-day work actually looks like. Brokers act as problem-solvers between clients and insurance companies, underwriters balance data analysis with relationship-building, and claims professionals step in during some of the most challenging moments to help people recover. Across all three roles, one thing stood out: no two days are the same.

The Skills That Matter Early in Your Career

Beyond technical knowledge, the discussion highlighted the importance of soft skills like communication, relationship-building, and curiosity. Panelists emphasized that early in your career, you don’t need to know everything, but you do need to ask questions, stay open to learning, and say “yes” to opportunities.

How will AI impact insurance careers?

The group also addressed a question many students are asking: what role will AI play in the future of insurance? The consensus was clear: AI will enhance the work, not replace it. By automating repetitive tasks, it will allow professionals to focus more on strategy, decision-making, and building relationships.

Getting Started in Risk Management and Insurance

For students considering their next steps, the advice was simple: start networking, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to explore. As one panelist put it, you don’t have to have it all figured out, just take the first step.

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Click here to watch the full webinar on demand to learn about careers in risk management and insurance. 

Thanks again to our panelists for sharing an inside look at careers in insurance.