Ivan Kharlanov

I studied psychology at Concordia, where I volunteered in a hypnosis research lab, before going on to earn two law degrees, an LLB and a JD, and building a career in corporate law and contract law. I started out as legal counsel in the credit industry and have since moved into transport and logistics

Career questions with Ivan

What do you love most about your work, and what inspired you to pursue this career in the first place? 

I am a straightforward person. I don't like overcomplicating things and enjoy breaking down complex processes and finding practical solutions. Law fits the way I think.

Also, I watched too much Judge Judy as a kid. That helped too.

Looking back, what skills have been the biggest gamechangers in your career? 

I stay organized and methodical even in high-pressure, high-volume environments. Close colleagues call me 'Zen' even when things are hectic.

How did Concordia prepare you for your career? 

At Concordia, I built the research skills I still use today in the legal field. My psychology degree and volunteering in Dr. Jean-Roch Laurence's hypnosis lab taught me how to think analytically and solve problems. I learned to break down complicated information and explain it clearly to different people. Those are the same skills I use now when working on contracts, leases, and making sure rules and regulations are followed by the other employees at my company.

What is a standout memory from your time at Concordia? 

I met my wife in my psychology class. (She made me write this answer).

If you could give your younger self one powerful piece of advice, what would it be? 

It’s okay to be bored or go slow, you don't always need to be stressed and rush things. It’s also what pushes you to try new things and build new skills.

What’s the most exciting shift happening in your industry right now? 

AI, like everywhere else, is having a big impact — everything from drafting demand letters to researching different legal topics. We just need to be careful because the things it puts out aren't always correct, so we still need to double check.

Feeling inspired?

• Explore research opportunities at one of the Psychology research labs.
• Make friends though the Homeroom’s Psych Pod to connect with like-minded peers.
• Connect with Career Counselling & Education Transitions to plan your career path.