Jacob did his undergraduate degree in Computer Science (B.S.) at BYU with a focus in data science and machine learning. Prior to joining the IDeA Labs in the Fall of 2015, Jacob had had two summer internships working with data analysis and prediction modeling: RJR investments running statistical regressions to determine investment trends in syndicate deals associated with initial public offerings (2013) and Nav Inc. initiating and facilitating credit-score machine learning prediction modeling of the $1.1T US SMB lending market (2014-2015). Jacob founded and served as a president of the first BYU Data Science Club. Jacob also majored in Arabic Language (B.A.) as a part of his undergraduate experience. Jacob enjoys volunteering in an NGO helping Iraqi refugees, which he cofounded in 2014. Among his many scholarships and awards, Jacob was named a Crocker Innovation Fellow and a Kennedy Scholar, reflecting his passion for innovative technology and international development. After finishing his first degree in August 2016, Jacob continued with his graduate studies in Decision Theory, working with Dr. Sean Warnick as his supervisor.