This month, our Student Spotlight features Jacob Dymond, a recent alumni of UWM’s Computer Science program and CEO’s Entrepreneur of the Year for 2022. Jacob now lives in New York City and works as a software engineer. His passions include software development, entrepreneurship, and startups.

What has your entrepreneurial journey looked like? What challenges have you had to face, and how did you overcome them?

Jacob: I think my journey as an entrepreneur started when I was a kid with lemonade stands and trading cards. I’ve always been building side projects throughout college, but never got to the point of turning them into any real business. The LEC ignited my entrepreneurial bug even more in my senior year and with all the support from them I’ve had much more confidence to actually get something going as a startup. I believe that the most challenging part is to believe in yourself and the vision that you have. Doubting yourself and listening to the constant rejection of others is really hard, but at the end of the day you have to understand that’s just part of the journey.   

Is there a relationship or connection you made at the LEC that has helped you?

Jacob: I’ve met so many influential people and friends at the LEC that have all been helpful in their own unique ways. Brian Thompson, Ilya Avdeev, Loren Peterson, Nathaniel Stern, Nicole Powley,  Kyle Jansson, and Jessica Silvaggi are just some of the many people that have honestly had the greatest impact on my entrepreneurial skills.  There’s been many other people I’ve met outside of the LEC because of the connections I’ve made at the LEC which have been a huge help as well.  

What has been the most valuable advice you have received?

Jacob: Set your goals with a long term view and work backwards from them. Planning out what you need to be doing on a daily, weekly, and yearly basis in order to achieve those ultimate goals.  

If you are interested in learning more about Jacob or getting into contact, click here to view his LinkedIn.