March 12, 2020
Recent RMI alumnus share his COB experiences
Aundray Johnson
We had the pleasure of recently speaking with Aundray Johnson (BSBA ’20) about his experiences with the COB’s risk management and insurance (RMI) program. Johnson, who is in the AAA Carolinas Agency Owner Program, told us the RMI faculty was welcoming, supportive and “wanted me to succeed.”
Please read his story below.
Why did you choose the RMI program?
At first, I was an accounting major. The accounting professors were awesome at teaching the classes, but I had a difficult time grasping the concepts and keeping up with the pace. I visited Dr. Jim Westmoreland to see if he had any suggestions about my academic path of study. He mentioned COB’s RMI program, and at first, I thought to myself, “Insurance? Not really sure about that.” At that time, I was already in my junior year and close to graduating. He then introduced me to Dr. Brenda Wells, who is the RMI department chair, and she showed me the department’s video, and she answered my questions. I didn’t know the breadth and scope of the insurance industry. It was then I decided to join the RMI program.
Describe your experience in the RMI program.
My experience with the RMI program was awesome. It provided a scholarship that was a big help to me. As a class, we visited different insurance companies and heard from guest speakers that told us about their companies. I also was able to attend an RMI career fair that had various representatives who were looking for RMI students to hire.
Describe your experiences with the RMI faculty.
The RMI faculty were exceptional! They care about their students, and there is a welcoming feeling when one is in their classrooms and offices.
The faculty wanted all of us to succeed. Dr. Wells, Dr. Brad Karl, and Professor Kurt Fickling understood my struggle with working full time while attending their classes. They invited me to their office to further bring clarity on a subject that I had trouble understanding, and as long as I put in the effort, they worked with me.
From left to right, Dr. Brenda Wells, Johnson, Professor Kurt Fickling, and Dr. Brad Karl.
How did the RMI faculty support you?
There were times where I felt overwhelmed with my full-time job and also attending the classes. Dr. Wells, Dr. Karl, and Professor Fickling encouraged me not to give up. I recently had gone through a major change in my life, and I had communicated with the professors about what had happened to me. They provided encouragement and were there for me. At that time in my life, I really needed someone to talk to. I used what happened to me as a motivation to become a better me. I think they (RMI faculty) would tell you they were impressed with how I conducted myself even at the time of my loss.
How did the RMI program prepare you for your career?
RMI made me and the students understand the language of insurance, the importance of risk, and ways to conduct myself professionally. The faculty demonstrated a level of professionalism and required us to follow suit.
Why would you recommend the RMI program to those ECU, undecided students?
To the undecided students, I encourage them to research the RMI program and ask questions. The insurance industry offers claims, underwriting, adjuster, personal lines, commercial lines, risk management and more! The demand is high for new talent because there are many people who are retiring from the insurance industry who must be replaced. So, the opportunity is there for you. Don’t miss this opportunity! Decide to sign on to the program once you learn more about the program. You will have the support of the faculty. The curriculum is straightforward, and you will earn your degree if you put in the work.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I am the direct descendant of Antony and Isabella, whose child was born on the shores of Virginia in 1619. The child’s name was William Tucker, named after the ship captain.
I drew my inspiration from my parents, Vivian Johnson and the late Ernest Anderson. They always strive for me to do better. I am the first generation to ever graduate from a university.
I served as the president ECU’s National Association of Black Accountants and was an active member of the RMI program. I also received the best student award from the RMI faculty for my hard work and dedication to both school and work.