We’re excited to welcome our 2025 Summer Intern Cohort to The Plexus Groupe! Over the next nine weeks, they’ll engage in a dynamic program featuring hands-on projects, professional mentorship, and opportunities for personal and career growth — all within a supportive and collaborative environment. From day one, our interns are immersed in meaningful work that enables them to explore the insurance industry and develop valuable skills.
Meet the talented individuals who are making the most of their summer with us — from their academic paths to their professional interests; each intern brings something unique to the table.
Gladys Castro
Employee Benefits Intern
Dallas, TX
Texas Woman’s University
Finance Major, Business Administration Minor
Imagine it’s your last day of the internship — what’s one thing you hope to say you accomplished?
On my last day, I hope to be able to say that I contributed meaningfully to the Employee Benefits practice and built strong connections with professionals in the field. Networking with experienced colleagues would provide valuable insights and help me grow toward a career in financial consulting. I aim to leave with both practical experience and lasting relationships.
What’s one project or assignment you’re particularly proud of — and what did it teach you?
I’m particularly proud of my participation in the X-Culture project, a global virtual team experience where I collaborated with students from different countries to develop a market entry strategy for a real company. This experience taught me that I’m more adaptable and resourceful than I initially believed. I stepped up to organize meetings, manage deadlines, and keep the group motivated despite language barriers and scheduling conflicts.
“I take pride in being someone others can count on, especially when working toward shared goals or navigating new challenges.”
Tell us about a time you stepped outside of your comfort zone. What did you learn?
When I delivered a speech during the election for the Events Coordinator position for the Accounting and Finance Society at my university. Public speaking has always been challenging for me, but I prepared thoroughly and presented my speech to the group. Being elected taught me that stepping beyond my comfort zone can lead to personal growth and unexpected success.
Daniel Dixon
Sales Intern
Dallas, TX
University of Arkansas
Finance Major
What initially drew you to an internship at The Plexus Groupe, and what are you most curious to learn during your time with us?
I was drawn to The Plexus Groupe because of its reputation for combining industry expertise with a values-driven, people-first culture. I’m excited to be part of a team that prioritizes both relationships and results and to see how those values are lived out in daily work. Most of all, I’m eager to learn how different departments collaborate to serve clients and how I can contribute meaningfully to that process.
“I genuinely care about people and aim to lead with purpose in everything I do.”
Tell us about a time you stepped outside of your comfort zone. What did you learn?
When I traveled out of the country for the first time to help lead a mission trip to the Dominican Republic, where we brought clean water and shared the Word of God. Leading a diverse team of 20 men and women in an unfamiliar environment challenged me to grow in confidence, adaptability, and faith. I learned that stepping into the unknown with purpose can reveal strengths you didn’t know you had.
What’s something you’re passionate about outside of school or work — and why does it matter to you?
I’m passionate about my faith in God, which shapes how I approach both life and work. It grounds me in values like integrity, humility, and compassion — qualities that help me navigate challenges and treat others with respect and empathy in the workplace.
Riley Heydenburg
Employee Benefits Intern
Deer Park, IL
Marquette University
Psychology Major, Human Resources Minor
What’s one project or assignment you’re particularly proud of — and what did it teach you about yourself?
I’m proud of taking a leadership role in a student organization at my university. When I became president, there was little interest and very few members. After working hard to reach students through networking, tabling, and planning events, it was gratifying to watch membership grow and a strong community form. This taught me that I am a strong leader who can overcome complex challenges.
“It’s important to me to always leave a place better than how I found it.”
What’s something you’re passionate about outside of school or work — and why does it matter to you?
I am very passionate about expressing myself through dancing. I have been dancing since I was three years old, and I still dance in college. It provides me with a creative outlet where I can make music visible.
Who’s someone — famous or professional — whose career journey inspires you?
One of my professors was very inspirational in her career journey as a first-generation immigrant. She ended up being very successful as an HR Manager and taught us from her extensive experience by connecting her stories with the course material.
HeeEun Yamamoto
Brand & Marketing Intern
Deer Park, IL
University of Illinois
Advertising Major, Criminology Minor
What initially drew you to an internship at The Plexus Groupe, and what are you most curious to learn during your time with us?
What initially drew me to intern at The Plexus Groupe was their Instagram reel of interns having fun and learning. The company aligns with my desire to learn and the work environment I want to experience. I’m eager to dive into projects and the marketing world.
“One thing that I value is always taking the opportunity and never regretting it.”
Is there a topic you’ve studied that unexpectedly sparked your interest — if so, why?
Criminology was one topic that I found oddly fascinating. It was the idea of learning the behaviors and reasons behind the mind of a criminal that intrigued me. Similarly, I became interested in understanding consumers and how businesses utilize that information to solve problems or generate creative ideas.
What’s something you’re passionate about outside of school or work — and why does it matter to you?
I have a lot of hobbies, but I am most passionate about ceramics. Ceramics is a significant aspect of my life because it’s a way for me to relax and escape reality. It’s also a fun hobby, and bringing my ideas to life is always exciting.
Follow along over the next nine weeks as our interns grow through hands-on projects, collaborate with seasoned professionals, and share their experiences. We’ll be spotlighting their journeys across our social channels — including an exciting Instagram takeover that offers a behind-the-scenes look at life as a Plexus intern.
About The Plexus Groupe
The Plexus Groupe is a Top 100 independent insurance advisory firm, backed by our knowledgeable team, cutting-edge resources, and a global network of partnerships. We specialize in comprehensive services across Business Insurance, Employee Benefits, Private Client solutions, Retirement Services, and Mergers & Acquisitions.
As a proud partner of Assurex Global – the world’s largest association of privately held insurance brokers – our risk management professionals provide tailored solutions to meet the diverse needs of our clients worldwide.
Headquartered in Deer Park, III., with additional offices across the U.S., The Plexus Groupe is committed to delivering personalized service, innovative solutions, and strategic insights that empower clients to thrive in today’s complex environment. Visit www.plexusgroupe.com to learn more.
