Joslyn Trovati’s journey into oncology social work wasn’t a straight line—but it was a deeply intentional one. Raised in northern New Jersey, Joslyn always knew she wanted to help others. Initially drawn to psychology, she realized she was meant for a more dynamic, community-centered role. That realization led her to social work, a field offering many paths to serve.
What’s your story?
I started out at GW as a psychology major, thinking I would work with people in a therapeutic setting. I realized I would be better suited in a more community-oriented setting and did my graduate work at University of Pennsylvania, earning my MSW with a concentration in Health Care Specialization. Ironically, I thought the one place I didn’t want to work was in a hospital — I had some idea that it would be monotonous and there wouldn’t be many opportunities to help people in a meaningful way. An internship helped to change my perspective: I discovered hospital social work could offer profound human connection, especially during moments of crisis.
While interning on an inpatient palliative care team during the COVID-19 pandemic, I found clarity. For some, that experience would be overwhelming, but for me, it confirmed that I wanted to be present with people in their most vulnerable moments. I started my career in Philadelphia with breast cancer patients, but my heart has been in DC since my undergrad days, so I returned to DC, where I now work with individuals across all cancer types and stages at the GW Cancer Center.
What gets you out of bed in the morning?
The first — and silly — answer is my cat. She is ruthless in her pursuit of breakfast. The honest answer is it’s my patients who truly inspire me to face each day with purpose. They’ve been handed some of the most devastating news they’ll ever hear. If I can help in even one way — arranging transportation, covering a utility bill, setting up food delivery — that’s what keeps me going.
I’m driven by the desire to give patients back a sense of agency when much of their world feels out of control. So much of cancer is about loss — of health, of routine, of independence — I want to give them even a small piece of that control back. My team provides a vital support system; one that extends far beyond paperwork and referrals. Meeting someone where they are, building trust, and witnessing their resilience and courage—that’s what keeps me in this work.
What is that one book that has influenced you the most?
I spent some time looking at my bookshelf, which has a lot of books on it. And I didn’t choose this book because it’s related to my work, I chose it because it’s more than compelling. It’s soul-stirring.
Between Two Kingdoms by Suleika Jaouad has had a lasting impact for me. This is a deeply personal memoir. Suleika is just 23 when she’s diagnosed with leukemia. During her treatment, she wrote a series called Life, Interrupted for the New York Times and started receiving letters from readers. She was inspired to go on a cross-country journey to reconnect with the people who supported her from afar.
It’s a candid tale of learning how to live again after cancer. It’s heart-wrenching, but also incredibly inspiring. It helped me better understand the emotional and spiritual aftermath that many patients face — especially when treatment ends but healing continues. I was reminded that recovery isn’t just physical. And that’s where social work can play a powerful role — helping people navigate what comes next.
You and your work have made a difference for many patients. Is there one patient who made a difference for you?
The patient who comes to mind is a woman I worked with in Philadelphia. I’ll call her “Donna.” I met her when she had a recurrence of breast cancer, who showed strength and vulnerability in equal measure. Luckily, she had a lot of family support and other people who loved her and looked out for her. Donna was a fierce advocate for herself. She wasn’t afraid to ask for help — and she let me support her in every way I could.
Donna’s unwavering gratitude made a profound impression on me. She never let me forget that what I was doing mattered — that kind of appreciation, especially on the hardest days, means everything. The connection we formed led to us co-starring in a video for the National Breast Cancer Foundation, and it’s become a personal touchstone for me. I rewatch it sometimes to remind myself why I do this work. It’s a beautiful record of the bond we shared.
What’s the most interesting thing we should know about you?
One of the most interesting things about me — and something I absolutely love sharing — is my passion for travel. I’ve been fortunate enough to visit 18 countries so far, and each journey has added something unique to how I see the world and my place in it.
My most recent adventure was a 10-day solo trip to Portugal this past April. It was equal parts peaceful and exhilarating. I wandered through historic alleyways in Lisbon and Porto, admired the vibrant, hand painted gondolas in Aveiro, soaked in the beauty of the Algarve coast, and enjoyed far too many pastel de nata. Traveling alone gave me the freedom to fully immerse myself in the local rhythm — trying new foods, listening to live fado music, and spending long afternoons in cafés just watching the world go by.
For me, there’s nothing more exciting than diving deep into the music, culture, and cuisine of a place I’ve never been. Every trip becomes a story I carry with me, and each destination leaves its mark. Japan is next on my list — hopefully this fall. I’ve been dreaming of the vibrant cities, tranquil gardens, and of course, the food!
Travel feeds my curiosity and sense of wonder. It constantly reminds me of how big, beautiful, and interconnected the world is. It keeps me grounded in gratitude and always looking forward to the next adventure.
