While we work with great students every day, I wanted to publish this short interview with our latest PNC Learning scholarship recipient: Eric Paulin.
Tell me a little bit about yourself?
I was born in Ajax Ontario but moved to Calgary Alberta 23 years ago. I am married and have 2 sons (6 and 3 years old). Music has always been a huge part of my live. My father was an insurance agent for over 25 years with State Farm so the industry is nothing new to me.
What were you doing before career-wise?
I have been a musician for the last 10 years doing everything from Solo acoustic shows to opening for touring musicians and doing some touring myself. I was a maintenance worker for 9 years and did some warehouse work for a year.
How did you hear about the PNC Learning scholarship?
I found PNC Learning when I was searching for courses for the Alberta General Insurance Level 1. When I was trying to find reviews on the course I stumbled upon the scholarship, and decided I would try my luck with a scholarship because I was recently laid off and didn’t have the funds for a course.
[editor’s note:] One of the reasons Eric was selected for this scholarship amongst all the October applicants was his written submission.
Why did you decide to study with PNC Learning?
I decided to go with PNC Learning because it’s a study at your own pace, they are very easy to get ahold of if needed, and they teach you what you NEED to know.
What are your plans for studying for this exam? Any tips/strategies you want to share?
My plan for studying is going through the course, listening to the lectures while writing my own notes, taking the chapter tests and then revisiting the chapters that were my weakest.
My best advice is don’t just listen to the lectures, read along and write your own notes to help grasp the information.
Also, read the key terms or glossary first, it helps understand the lectures a bit better.
[editor’s note:] This is exactly the method we recommend as well. Try it out!
What are you plans for the insurance industry/career-wise once you’re licensed?
I currently have 2 potential employers waiting for me to get my level one. But after I receive my level one, I plan on studying for my level 2 and life licenses. In the near future I will either be going for my CIP or CAIB.
[editor’s note:] We look forward to following Eric’s journey in the insurance industry and will try to update this post as he reaches different milestones.
If you want to get into the insurance industry but are having some trouble financially, get in touch to learn more about our scholarships and financial assistance programs.