OSU Institute of Technology student Julie Orellana is the recipient of the Milliman Opportunity Scholarship. Orellana was one of 17 recipients from colleges and universities across the United States, Australia, South Africa and the United Kingdom who have demonstrated academic excellence and plan to pursue a career in actuarial science or related fields.
Pursing a Bachelor of Technology in Information Technologies in Software Development, Orellana is receiving this scholarship for the second year in a row. She says that being a recipient is a big blessing to her family and her, and she is beyond happy to receive this award again.
"Receiving this scholarship two years in a row has proved to me that studying diligently and being of service to others always pays off," said Orellana. "When work and school get hard, I think about the fact that there are many young people out in the world that do not have the privilege to attend a university. God has blessed me with this opportunity, so I continue to study hard, taking full advantage of what I have been blessed with."
The program was created to assist students from ethnic groups and races that are under-represented in the fields of actuarial science, data science, computer science, economics, programming, mathematics, statistics, data analytics or finance.
The $5,000 scholarship can be used for tuition, books, housing or any other university-related expenses. The two scholarships have helped Orellana pay her tuition for four semesters at OSUIT.
"We are pleased to support these outstanding students, and recognize their accomplishments to date," said Milliman chief executive officer Steve White in a recent release about the program. "Our professions will benefit from their diverse backgrounds and perspectives. Our hope is that this financial support will be a small step on their path to future success and leadership."
Orellana plans to graduate from OSUIT with her BT in IT in 2022 but doesn't plan to stop there.
"I hope to continue my education and get a master's in business administration," she said. "I want to be able to use the knowledge I acquire at OSUIT in service for others in my community and beyond."
She said that she chose OSUIT because it had the exact program she wanted to study, was affordable and only 30 minutes from home in Tulsa. Her father also spoke to the campus's reputation, as he had great experiences with OSUIT graduates, so she knew it was the place for her.
"I love OSUIT!" said Orellana. "The faculty are very supportive, helpful and welcoming, even after moving to mostly all online during the pandemic."
Milliman is among the world's largest providers of actuarial and related products and services. The firm has consulting practices in healthcare, property & casualty insurance, life insurance and financial services, and employee benefits. Founded in 1947, Milliman is an independent firm with offices in major cities around the globe. For further information, visit milliman.com.