Nicole Goffena and Jenny Hernandez-Botello, The School of Business and FIR NW alumni.
Looking to the future, Nicole Goffena envisions FIR NW evolving into a paid post-graduate opportunity that mirrors the real-world advertising experience. She aspires to see it partnering with big-name clients and becoming a nationally recognized undergraduate-run advertising agency, producing highly sought-after talent.
In the fast-paced world of advertising, where creativity meets strategy, two voices emerge from the FIR Northwest (FIR NW) program, painting a vivid picture of their journey from academia to the industry. Nicole Goffena and Jenny Hernandez-Botello, both FIR NW alumni, share their unique experiences, visions for the future, and the transformative impact of FIR NW on their careers.
Nicole Goffena: From Student to Managing Director
Nicole, a trailblazing 2023 PSU graduate, reflects on her remarkable journey within FIR NW. She reveals her passion for fostering diversity in leadership and her commitment to bringing fresh perspectives into the advertising arena. Nicole's goal? To leave behind a legacy of empowered BIPOC women in leadership roles and promote community building within the industry.
As a former creative writer, account manager, and managing director at FIR NW, Nicole speaks candidly about the challenges she faced. Overcoming the initial overwhelm of learning the ropes, she emerged as a seasoned leader. The pros, she insists, far outweighed the cons. She cherishes the bonds formed with like-minded individuals, the opportunity to create outstanding work, and the access to the KMC's innovative space.
Nicole's path to advertising was unconventional. She started with a deep-rooted skepticism of the industry but had a transformative experience in a creative strategy class that changed her perspective. Nicole now views advertising as a powerful tool for shaping society and a platform for underrepresented voices like hers.
Despite the instability, her team produced exceptional work, met all timelines, and left accounts well-prepared for the future. Post-graduation, Nicole is working as executive manager at ThinkNW.
Jenny Hernandez-Botello: Embracing Continuous Learning
On the other side of the FIR NW journey, Jenny, a PSU 2023 alum, shares how the program has left an indelible mark on her post-graduation career. FIR NW, she believes, is a platform for personal and professional growth, emphasizing that what you put in, you get back.
Her journey into advertising began with a fascination for the field's creative potential. Through creative strategy and marketing advertising courses, she uncovered the intricate process of crafting compelling campaigns. Witnessing the marriage of captivating copywriting and striking visuals fueled her passion.
Reflecting on the transition from FIR NW account manager to managing director to her current role as an insights analyst at Roundel, she notes that while the day-to-day aspects may differ, the core principles remain the same. Adaptability, collaboration, curiosity, and problem-solving skills honed at FIR NW continue to serve as the foundation for success.
Jenny’s career aspirations extend beyond personal achievements to making a positive impact and supporting others in her pursuits. She emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and fearlessly pursuing opportunities.
FIR NW: A Launchpad for Advertising Leaders
These stories from FIR NW alumni showcase the transformative power of the program. It fosters leaders who are passionate about diversity, creative innovation, and making a positive impact. Whether it's Nicole's vision of empowering BIPOC women in leadership or Jenny's commitment to continuous learning and advocacy, FIR NW is shaping the advertising industry's future, one talented graduate at a time.
As FIR NW continues to evolve, it stands poised to become a nationally recognized hub of advertising excellence, producing leaders who are ready to leave their mark on the industry.
More information on FIR NW.