Harlene Ellin identified her enthusiasm for communications early in her career and by activating her network of connections, she quickly found opportunities, both full-time and gigs, in a number of industries including freelance writing for the Chicago Tribune and Times, working as an interior designer, and leading communications strategy for the Women’s March Chicago and CARPLS Legal Aide. In each industry, Harlene used the skills she learned as an LSA student to align her career with causes she cared about and move the needle on issues of importance to her. From journalism to nonprofits to legal, Harlene highlights the flexibility that an LSA degree can offer, and is now coming back to campus to share her hard-earned wisdom and life lessons with current LSA students.

About Harlene:

After graduating with B.A. in English and Political Science from U-M, Harlene pursued a law degree as planned. She quickly learned that life doesn’t follow a linear path, but often includes unexpected twists and turns. After dropping out of law school, Harlene’s shifted her focus, or what she calls career “corkscrews”, to earn a M.A. from Columbia University’s School of Journalism and working as an award-winning news and feature writer for a variety of major news outlets. She also has held various communications-related positions — from public relations assistant to communications director — in both the private and non-profit sectors.

A lifelong lover of art, architecture and design, Harlene returned to school yet again. This time she earned a degree in interior design from Harrington School of Design, while raising her three children. She went on to work for several years as a residential interior designer in the Chicago area. Most recently, Harlene has been highly engaged in political activism, using her varied skill set to advance progressive causes such as abortion access, women’s rights and gun reform.

You should attend this session if you are:
- A U-M undergraduate LSA student
- Interested in journalism, writing, communications, nonprofit work, or interior design
- Exploring multiple career aspirations and interests

What you’ll gain by attending:
- Make a connection with a successful LSA alum ready to support you
- Get ideas for how to build a career when your path is not traditional
- Learn how to build your networking skills

RSVP NOW to be part of the conversation.

The Opportunity Hub aims to deliver inclusive and accessible experiences and welcomes all LSA students to participate. This event is in a wheelchair-accessible building which includes wheelchair-accessible restrooms, a gender-inclusive and accessible restroom, places to sit or stand during the event, and accessible parking options nearby. To request other accommodations please contact Sairah Husain at sairah@umich.edu or 734-763-4674 so we can make arrangements.