I also prepare and complete my own analyses as well. I've been in the profession for about 8 years. My advice to someone in school is to try to take as many classes as you can to help prepare for the exams. I think it makes the exam process a lot easier. Also, if you're pursuing a non-actuarial science degree, try to take some actuarial or business classes before graduating.
Any exposure helps.
My advice to someone just beginning their actuarial career is to try to get as much exposure as you can to the different actuarial jobs within your company. I am an actuarial student in Pakistan. I am also a student of the local university which gives the Bachelor of Engineering degree in Computer System Engineering in 4 years. I have already gone through one year and it is really impossible for me to join any firm of Actuaries to gain experience during my graduation. My first question is whether my B.E degree in Computer Systems will give me any advantage in my career as an actuary.