Jacob Searing joined JMEC 14 as part of his past employer's leadership training. With background in sales and risk management support, Jacob was ready for a new challenge, looking to expand and use his existing skill tool box. He wanted to use his theoretical knowledge of business concepts and put it into practice.

As is the case for many alumni, JMEC opened up a Pandora's box for Jacob. Ambitious by nature, the JMEC experience encouraged Jacob to try out new things, and explore unconventional solutions. This translated back into his employment, being promoted to a regional coordinator role just a few months after completing the program.

Knowing the importance of a strong network, Jacob continued to volunteer as an alumni association leader for USCD, his MBA alma mater. When the school launched a new Global Leadership Institute (GLI), Jacob sensed an opportunity. JMEC had given Jacob the confidence to act on his hunch. He was able to negotiate a paid job designed to promote GLI in Japan. Ready to take on a new challenge, but not quite prepared to leave the safe haven of a secure income, Jacob did something hardly heard of in Japan. He asked his employer to reduce his FTE from 100% to 60%, accepting the reduced salary and benefits that come with such a change. His title and work content remained the same with 40% less work time. With this extra time on his hands, Jacob dived into his new part-time challenge and incorporated his own company "Eigo Pro" on July 31, 2009.

Before JMEC, Jacob always looked for solutions but on a stable and safe path. "JMEC taught me how to embrace change. At the amusement park of life, I got off the carousel and am riding a roller coaster now." And Jacob is loving every minute of it.