Alexis Skiniotes

What high school did you attend? And year of graduation?

I attended Lincoln-Way West High School and graduated in 2013.

What University are you attending? And year?

I just graduated from Missouri State University in the beginning of May.

What is your major and why?

My degree is in Risk Management and Insurance, and I also have a Mathematics minor. I have always loved math, because it is a challenge. Having a degree in RMI allows me to apply my passion for math to a career in insurance. My goal is to become an actuary some day.

What do you like most about your school?

What I love most about Missouri State University is that I have always felt at home there. People are so friendly, professors are always willing to help, and all of the students are proud to be Bears. Also, Missouri State University has an outstanding College of Business, and it's the only university in the area that offers the Risk Management and Insurance major. I have received a great education, and I am very proud to call myself a Missouri State Alum.

What is an essential thing you must have while studying?

Coffee. Coffee. Coffee. And a lot of space for all of my papers.

What do you like to do when not in school or studying?

When I'm not in school or studying, I like to exercise and lift weights. I am a former athlete, so I like to keep my body healthy and in good shape. I also like to hang out with my friends, read books, and ride my bike.

Do you have post college plans?

I have accepted a full-time position as an Underwriter Trainee for MetLife in Kansas City. Soon, I will become an underwriter, and then I plan on studying for the actuarial exams that I need to pass to become an actuary. Eventually, I may go back to school to get a Master's Degree in Mathematics or Finance.

What is your dream job and why?

My dream job is to be an actuary for life insurance. Becoming an actuary and taking the exams is a very challenging and daunting task, and this intrigues me, because I know I am able to work hard. Working with mathematical models and statistics to create mortality tables and price insurance seems very interesting to me. Also, the career is very low-stress after the exams are passed, and there is always room for growth. I've never met an actuary who doesn't love their job.

Is anyone in your family an AHEPAN?

My dad, Alexander Skiniotes is a member of AHEPA.

What does AHEPA mean to you?

Wherever I go, I don't seem to meet a lot of Greek people like me. AHEPA creates a community, where we can share our traditions and culture with one another. AHEPA allows us to connect with others who come from the same roots, where we can come together as one big, Greek family. Also, AHEPA Chapter 131 has provided me with the support to continue my education after high school, and I am incredibly grateful for that.

Whom do you look up to and why?

I will forever look up to my parents, Al and Janet Skiniotes. They are both incredibly hard-working and caring people. Throughout my years at Missouri State, they have always been there for me, and they supported me with every decision that I've made. They have raised me well, and I hope to be as good of a parent someday as they are to me. 

What are your parents’ names?

My parents are Alexander and Janet Skiniotes.

Are you in any activity or sport while in college or high school?

I competed for the MSU Swimming and Diving team for 4 years in college after competing previously in high school for 4 years. I started diving right before I went to high school. I also was the treasurer of Gamma Iota Sigma, which is a professional insurance fraternity with chapters all throughout the US.

Tell us an accomplishment that makes you particularly proud. 

Throughout my 4 years at MSU, I was able to compete in every diving meet all while maintaining stellar grades. Although it seemed like there wasn't enough time in the day to do homework, go to class, and work all day, I was able to excel in everything that I did. At the end of my diving season, I won the 3 meter diving event in the Missouri Valley Conference Championships. That was one of my proudest moments, and it is something that I will remember for the rest of my life. 

Do you have any siblings? If so what are their names and ages?

I have an older brother, Stephan Skiniotes, who is 23 years old.