Employee Spotlight: Jocelyn Evel, RBT

1. Where do you call home?   

I am originally from Long Island, New York, and Northport was my home for 26 years! I moved down to Tampa about a year and a half ago to move in with my boyfriend, and I love it here, but I miss the NY pizza, bagels, and my amazing friends and family up there.  

2. How many years have you worked in the ABA field? 

I have been working in ABA for a year and a half! I had some experience working with this amazing community up in NY; my cousin was an inspiration to me to go into this field.  She was diagnosed with ASD at the age of six. She lived with us for a while, and it taught me so much about this community. I was a Direct Support Person for a boy with Down syndrome for five years, and he has been my best buddy ever since.  

3. How did you end up working for Applied ABC?   

A hiring person at Applied ABC reached out to me, and I will always be grateful. I love working for such a great company that is supportive and beyond helpful with anything you need. 

4. What’s the most fulfilling part of your work? 

The most fulfilling part of working at Applied ABC is watching my patient achieve his goals. Seeing how excited my buddy gets when he works so hard at something, and he finally gets it, is incredibly rewarding. I also love the supportive environment he’s in. His parents are some of the most involved and dedicated parents I have ever met. We are a great team together! 

5. How do you unwind after a long day? 

After a long day of work, I usually unwind on the softball field. I play three days a week, and I love it. If I’m not at softball, I will usually be with my boyfriend and our dog.  

6. What are some interesting facts about you? 

An interesting fact about me is that I coached a special needs baseball team for kids and adults when I was in NY for 2-3 years. It was so much fun and extremely rewarding. I had one player on my team who danced while he would make plays, and it was amazing to see. I also love to go to festivals with my friends and go fishing. And I have an autism awareness tattoo on my shoulder for my cousin.