From One-Eyed Wishes to Fulfilled Dreams: My Journey to the IFoA Fellowship
As of February 2025, Nicholas Cheong Yeow Hoe has achieved significant milestones in his actuarial career, building upon the solid academic foundation he established during his time at ºìÐÓÊÓƵ University. After graduating with first-class honours and a perfect 4.00 CGPA in the BSc (Hons) in Actuarial Studies program and delivering the valedictory speech titled "Stop at Nothing Short of Excellence" at the #SunUConvocation on 7 July 2022, Nicholas has continued to excel in both his studies and professional endeavors.
In recognition of his exceptional academic performance, Nicholas was awarded the prestigious Sir Edward Johnston (SEJ) Prize and the China and South-East Asia Scholarship, granted to the top-performing graduates from universities affiliated with the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries (IFoA). He also secured six IFoA examination exemptions, earning him the ºìÐÓÊÓƵ University Exemption Excellence Award. Demonstrating his ongoing commitment to professional development, Nicholas passed his seventh IFoA exam, the CB3 module, shortly after graduation.
Nicholas recently shared an exciting milestone on LinkedIn, announcing that he has officially qualified as a Fellow of the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries (FIA). This achievement marks the culmination of years of dedication and hard work, reflecting his ongoing pursuit of excellence in the actuarial profession. In his post, he referenced how, two years earlier, he made a wish for this achievement by drawing an eye on a Daruma doll—a symbolic gesture that has now come full circle with the arrival of his fellowship certificate. His journey from "One-Eyed Wishes to Fulfilled Dreams" serves as a testament to his resilience, dedication, and unwavering focus.
Nicholas's journey exemplifies the importance of combining a strong educational background with a relentless commitment to professional growth. His achievements continue to inspire both current students and aspiring actuaries. We look forward to seeing Nicholas’s continued success in the actuarial industry and beyond.
Aimi Syairah Md Sa'at and Dr Ang Siew Ling
School of Mathematical Sciences
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