From Miami to Stockholm: How Hanna Launched her Creative Career

Hi Hanna! You graduated from the Advanced Portfolio program in the Fall of 2025; Tell us a little bit about yourself, your background and your aspirations!

I grew up in Miami, Florida with an American dad and a Swedish mom. After high school, I moved to North Carolina to study Psychology at Wake Forest University, go Deacs! I've always been drawn to creative problem solving, and I've found myself especially interested in the parts of advertising/marketing that blend psychology with creative thinking.

Can you share with us where you were in your life/career when you found out about the Advanced Portfolio Program?

I was about to graduate from college and didn't know what was next for me. I had various marketing internships throughout college, but I still felt like something was missing. I didn't know enough about the industry as a whole, or where within it I would best fit.

What specifically about the Advanced Portfolio program prompted you to apply?

I applied because I wanted the chance to take risks without real-world consequences. I was drawn to creative strategy but had never studied or worked in it, so the strategy track felt like a great fit. I was also torn between applying to jobs in Stockholm or the US, and I felt this program would help me figure out where to go next. Looking ahead to a full-time role, it felt like the perfect stepping stone to get me there.

How would you describe the program for someone who didn't know about it or Berghs?

I would describe it as a 15-week intensive advertising program that introduces students to every part of the industry, challenges their creative thinking, and helps them find their strengths within creative and strategy. The curriculum mixed lessons on specialized topics like copywriting, AI, case films, and strategy, with real-world creative projects. This gives students an in-depth understanding of specific topics while also giving them space for creative freedom and space to combine what they've learned throughout the program.

How were your teachers?

My teachers were awesome! Every teacher throughout the program had worked, or was still working, in the advertising/creative industry. Learning from their experiences was invaluable. The teachers in the advanced program gave us insight into their work and the chance to build a network of interesting, successful people within the industry. The lessons and advice I got from my teachers at Berghs are ones I'll carry with me as I continue in my career.

What did you find most fun or valuable during your time at Berghs?

Where do I begin! I loved working with people from different backgrounds. The students in my group were from all over the world and were all in different places in their careers. My peers introduced me to new perspectives and creative ways of thinking that I would otherwise not have been exposed to. The collaboration throughout our many group projects was challenging and extremely rewarding, both creatively and personally. I also really appreciated how much the teachers wanted to help us grow and improve. I learned so much from both my peers and my teachers over those 15 weeks.

What has happened in your life since you graduated from the program?

After finishing the Advanced Program in December 2025, I was lucky enough to get hired full-time as a Brand Strategist at Kurppa Hosk… dream job! I moved to Stockholm full-time and started working in January 2026. Since then, I've worked on both brand and communications strategy projects and have loved every bit of the experience. Kurppa Hosk is an incredible agency with great people and super interesting projects.

Do you feel Berghs played any part in helping you land your job?

Absolutely. I wouldn't be where I am today without the Advanced Program. My 15 weeks at Berghs helped me hone in on my strengths and figure out what I wanted to do next. The Berghs network, and its alumni, helped connect me with the right people and strengthened my desire to work in Stockholm. And the projects we did throughout the program helped prepare me for my role now and the interviews that got me here.

What would you say to someone who is considering taking the Advanced Portfolio Program?

Do it! Especially if you're at an in-between point in your career. This is the perfect way to find your strengths, take risks, and learn about different sides of the industry. You'll never regret learning more and meeting interesting new people.

Keen to reach out to Hanna Hicks? Reach out to her on LinkedIn.