Lina works in the financial sector
With both a bachelor's and master's degree from the School of Business, Economics and Law in Gothenburg, Lina Holmqvist has built a career as a Financial Advisor at Nordea. Lina wanted an education that not only provided knowledge about numbers, but also an understanding of how business and society are connected – this led her to the Bachelor's programme in Business and Economics and the Master's programme in Management.
An education that opens doors
Lina Holmqvist describes her decision to study for a Bachelor's degree in Economics as a conscious choice to lay a broad foundation. She wanted an education that would give her more than just knowledge about numbers; she also wanted to understand how businesses and society are connected.
“Economics provides an understanding of both business and society, and it felt like a secure foundation on which to build.”
When it came to choosing a master's programme, the decision was easy. She wanted to delve deeper into management and leadership, and understand how organisations work with strategy and sustainability.
"The programme gave me insight into how companies can manage change and drive sustainable development. The combination of breadth and depth suited me perfectly.”
Reflecting on her entire educational journey, she acknowledges that it not only equipped her with knowledge, but also fostered a strategic and analytical mindset, a skill set that has proven invaluable in her current role.
Courses that make a difference in working life
During her Bachelor's programme, the business administration and finance courses were the highlights for Lina. Lina says she appreciated the analytical nature of the programme and how it taught her to solve complex problems.
“I like to calculate and think strategically, and those courses gave me exactly that.”
During her Master's programme, her favourite subjects were project management and change management. She describes how project management provided her with practical leadership skills and the ability to manage different perspectives, while change management gave her a deeper understanding of how companies can drive sustainable change.
"It's knowledge I use every day, especially when working with clients who need long-term solutions."
Inspiring lecturers
Lina highlights her supervisor, Niclas Egels Zandén, as a key figure in her studies. He challenged her to think one step further and raised the bar for her.
“He encouraged us to think further ahead, which resulted in our master's thesis being praised. Without his support, it would not have been possible.”
She also mentions Conny Overland, a lecturer who always generated engagement and interest.
“He treated the students with warmth and curiosity, making every lecture inspiring. It's that kind of thing that makes you remember a course long afterwards.”
Business contacts that provide perspective
An important part of the programme involved meeting companies and organisations. According to Lina, guest lectures and study visits provided a clear idea of how theory is applied in practice.
“It was inspiring to hear how companies work with the issues we studied. It made us feel that what we were learning really mattered outside the classroom."
More than just studies
Her time at the School was much more than course literature and exams. She talks about the sense of community and all the memories she made during those years.
“All the hours spent in the library, group work, and my exchange semester abroad are things that you carry with you throughout your life.”
She describes the School as a place that provides both knowledge and networks. ‘The school opens doors and provides tools for the future. It is a fantastic place for those who want to develop both academically and personally.”
A typical day in the life of a financial advisor
Lina currently works as a financial advisor at Nordea, a role that involves consulting, analysis and liaising with customers. She says her job involves helping customers to make informed financial decisions and creating solutions that are tailored to their needs.
“I provide investment advice and bespoke solutions to optimise my clients' financial situation.”
This means she works with everything from mortgages and pension solutions to building investment portfolios that match customers' goals and risk profiles.
She describes the role as both stimulating and demanding. There is always something to do, which requires good organisational skills and the ability to prioritise.
“The best thing about the job is that no two days are the same. I meet different people with different needs, so I'm constantly learning something new.”
Sustainability as a natural part
Lina's work involves sustainability as a natural part of her job. She says that her education provided her with a solid grasp of the concept and its significance for businesses and society.
“Sustainability is emphasised at most companies, including in banking. I help customers to invest sustainably and understand the importance of choosing companies that contribute positively to the environment and society.'
Lina believes that this area will become even more important in the future and that her studies at the School has prepared her to address these issues.
Advice for prospective students
Lina offers some clear advice to anyone considering applying to the School of Business, Economics and Law; “I would really encourage anyone thinking about applying to do so. There are courses for everyone, as well as broad programmes that open many doors, even if you don't know exactly where you want to go.”
She emphasises that the School offers a unique opportunity for academic and personal development and that you will gain valuable experience long after graduation. "If you take advantage of everything on offer, you will gain an education as well as memories and networks that will stay with you for the rest of your life."