Career 101 – Episode 1

From Business to Behavior Analysis
Guest: Ms. Shumaila Jaffrey | Adjunct Professor, Bay Path University (USA)

About the Episode

In this inspiring episode, Ms. Shumaila Jaffrey shares her unconventional journey from business and marketing into the world of behavior analysis. Now a professor and supervisor, she discusses how curiosity, continuous learning, and mentorship shaped her career — and how students can follow a similar path.

Key Takeaways:

• You don’t need a traditional psychology background to start in behavior analysis — pivoting is possible.
• Behavior analysis isn’t just for autism — it’s applied in education, organizations, sports, policy, and more.
• Networking, supervision, and volunteering are vital for growth in this field.
• High school students should focus on psychology or sciences to prepare for this career.
• Certifications require formal coursework and experience; organizations like ABAI and BACB are good starting points.

For Parents

Learn about early signs of autism, how behavioral therapy helps, and what questions to ask your child’s therapist.

For Students

Explore practical steps like choosing the right subjects, seeking mentorship, and starting with technician-level roles to build a future in behavior analysis.