As a Rocket, Mathematics Senior Found Path to Classroom, Career Success

As a Rocket, Mathematics Senior Found Path to Classroom, Career Success

Matt Johnson said he has grown tremendously both academically and professionally at UToledo.

"I've passed two Society of Actuaries exams (P and FM), and my classes in actuarial science have prepared me with the mathematical and analytical tools needed to succeed in the field," Johnson said. "One of my proudest achievements has been interning with Health Alliance Plan (HAP) in Michigan."

A senior in mathematics with a concentration in actuarial science, Johnson works as part of HAP's actuarial team on projects involving Medicare Advantage, learning to write SQL queries, building R scripts and analyzing healthcare claims data to support business decisions.

"This experience helped me see how what I've learned in the classroom connects directly to real-world problems," he said. "I knew I wanted to go into something math related. This career is widely regarded as one of the best low-stress and high-income jobs on the market and I knew I had the skills to learn how to do it."

Between work and classes, Johnson maintains a busy schedule on campus.

"I'm most proud of becoming the student representative for the Department of Mathematics and Statistics, where I connect students with actuarial opportunities and help strengthen ties between UToledo and employers in the field," Johnson said. "I'm also the treasurer and starting left tackle for the Club Football team."

Zhiwei Chen, an associate lecturer in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics, said Johnson had achieved remarkable success.

"I first met Matt in my calculus class, and I was impressed by how proactive and eager he was to adapt to a new and challenging environment by reaching out for guidance and maintaining communication through each critical decision, demonstrating his strong ability to connect and seek direction," Chen said. "He earned the highest grade in that class and showed a deep commitment to learning and professional growth. While not initially heavily involved in extracurriculars, he later emerged as a leader in the problem-solving seminar, helping fellow students overcome academic challenges. His classmates often describe him as exceptionally intelligent and supportive - a student whose drive, curiosity and initiative truly set him apart."

Following his graduation in May, Johnson said he plans to continue working at HAP as an actuarial analyst.

"I still have my internship that I did with HAP over the summer," he said. "At the end of the internship they gave me an intent-to-hire letter that basically continues my internship until I graduate, at which point I will assume an official position."

While his career path is coming into full view, Johnson said his journey along this path has not been without its challenges.

"Coming from a small town, I had to adjust to the rigor of university coursework and the pace of an internship in a professional environment," he said. "But I've been able to overcome those obstacles through perseverance, mentorship from professors and the support of my peers.

"My advice to other students: take advantage of every opportunity to apply what you learn outside the classroom - internships, research or even tutoring others. Those experiences are where your confidence and skills really grow."

Outside portrait of Matt Johnson, who is graduating in spring with a bachelor's degree in mathematics with a concentration in actuarial science.