WKU News

A love for math, statistics, and research caused senior Mathematical Economics major Simon Heimbrock to select Actuarial Sciences as his concentration and future career.

“I came into WKU undecided but during a presentation I made for BA 175, I picked a major and learned more about it,” he said.

The Louisville native was recently selected for a prestigious competitive internship in actuarial sciences with Anthem in Indianapolis for summer 2020. Only about a dozen students from across the country are selected for the actuarial science internship, said Department of Economics Chair Dr. Alex Lebedinsky.

“I’m excited about the opportunity,” Heimbrock said. “There aren’t very many places who hire actuarial interns. I’m looking forward to getting hands-on experience.”

Heimbrock credits Lebedinsky for leading him to this opportunity. Lebedinsky learned about Anthem’s Career Night, where students were able to meet with Anthem professionals, and invited Simon and some classmates to drive to Louisville one evening for the event.

“He prepared me for this opportunity by providing higher-level classes that I needed,” Heimbrock said about Lebedinsky. “He is super helpful and trying to improve the math econ degree. I don’t think I get this internship without him.”

During his time as an intern, Heimbrock expects to have a very structured experience. He will be paired with an actuary who will demonstrate the day-to-day responsibilities and provide guidance.

“The internship process and structure looks very professional,” Heimbrock said. “Everything has been explained well and Anthem seems very interested in its employees and interns.” He added that Anthem will ensure that he learns what he needs to prepare for future certification exams.

Eventually, Heimbrock would like to work as an actuary in Louisville, where he grew up, but is willing to move wherever the company is hiring.