By Mary (Honey) Mathieu, DLE communications intern and a senior at Trinity Christian College in Palos Heights, IL

As summer begins, so does a new career chapter for Gabrielle Chisolm, who is stepping into an exciting role as a marketing intern with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). SHRM is a global professional organization that conducts research and develops resources for human resource professionals. Its membership numbers nearly 340,000 members across 180 countries.

Advancing from her DLE internship to her new position opens doors for expanding her network and portfolio. Gabrielle will write content for the organization’s website and newsletter, as well as support podcast production and advertising. “I’m excited to work for a non-profit that strives to create inclusive and safe workplaces for everyone,” she shares.

The dozens of interviews and articles that Gabrielle completed during her four-month DLE stint helped her to hone interviewing and storytelling skills. She also credits her experience with improving her writing by emphasizing that less is more to entice readership. “Three things that have changed about my writing since my role with the DLE are my conciseness, storytelling, and ability to engage the reader,” she outlines. “At first, I thought I had to add length to make stories compelling. But through thoughtful feedback, I learned how to tell a heartfelt, engaging story in fewer words. Now, I approach writing with a sharper eye, identifying the key aspects of someone’s story to develop a captivating article.”

Looking ahead, Gabrielle hopes to pursue a career in broadcasting as an assignment desk researcher, where she can combine interviewing, writing, and investigative skills to tell impactful stories. “I realize how rewarding it is to amplify local voices,” she reveals. 

She also aspires to become a published author–and she’s got a running start toward that goal. Gabrielle has written a fantasy novel titled The Seal of Ambrose, which follows two half-human protagonists, Dawn and Cephur, in their fight for belonging. “I’m currently hiring a copy editor to ensure it’s at its best before I pitch it to publishing companies; I aim to have it picked up by the fall of 2026,” she beams. 

There’s one more creative endeavor in her wheelhouse. Gabrielle adds the hat of entrepreneur for her baking business, Gabby’s Goodies, which she launched in 2015. She plans to sell her tasty treats in farmers markets this summer near her Crofton, MD, neighborhood. “My great-grandmother taught me everything I know about baking,” says Gabrielle. “I’m honored to carry on her legacy.”

From storytelling and marketing to entrepreneurship and publishing, Gabrielle’s versatility and drive is admirable. The DLE community will be cheering her every step of the way.

LESSONS LEARNED: DLE INTERN THANKS MEMBERS FOR HELPING HER STRETCH

One of Gabrielle’s favorite assignments involved interviewing the trio of DLE members who received 2025 Berkshire County 40 Under Forty Awards. Her conversations helped her discover new ways to take charge of her personal and professional journey. Here’s how each honoree inspired new perspective: 

• Mystie Ford taught her that “career growth extends beyond a resume,” as Mystie’s pursuit of personal passions, like weightlifting, have complemented her professional success at Greylock Federal Credit Union.
• Luke Fitzgerald uplifted her with his grit and perseverance, having founded The Love of T Foundation–a non-profit dedicated to providing suicide prevention services–after losing his mother. “His story shows that powerful efforts can be derived from struggle. His work is truly commendable.”
• Lyndsey Wadsworth illustrated that fulfilment can come from community involvement, as she balances her work at General Dynamics with mentoring local youth.