Jacob Peifer: One Week Changed Everything

Jacob Peifer had no intention of pursuing business. Science was his thing. Until 2019, when one week changed everything…

Jacob heard a presenter talk about PFEW at his school, and on a whim, he decided to give it a try. In his own words, "I went in with no expectations or agenda. My Company Advisor Tara Murray created an environment where I felt safe putting myself forward as a candidate for CEO, and I was elected. This was the first time I had ever taken on a leadership role, and I found it to be an incredibly rewarding experience."

Seeds were being planted, and Jacob remembers vividly what happened next. "I remember becoming interested in business because of how it touches all corners of the marketplace. I emerged from PFEW not only as a more complete version of myself, but as a student who discovered a passion for the business world and leadership." He also discovered a passion for investing and the markets.

So strong was PFEW's influence, Jacob enrolled at St. Joseph's University pursuing a major in finance and economics with a minor in business intelligence and analytics. He decided to join the school's investing club, but he quickly discovered they didn't have one. So he did what any enterprising PFEW graduate with a little motivation would do – he started one!

And today, the club is thriving with over 70 members and a student-run executive board. He's also created Jacob's Investing Center (JIC), an investing education business complete with instructional videos and an actionable beginner investing guide to help people begin their journey toward financial success.

Late in his junior year, his CA Tara Murray reached out to see if he'd be interested in returning to PFEW as a Company Advisor. Jacob didn't hesitate, and in 2024 he and Tara co-mentored a PFEW team together. Jacob called it his "full circle moment". Says Jacob, "I look forward to volunteering as a CA for years to come, and I thank Tara for being an amazing mentor and friend, the other CAs who were welcoming and inspiring, and the incredible group of students I had the privilege of helping to guide."

One theme that is constant in Jacob's journey? Mentors. He credits many powerful mentors in his life for his success, and encourages young people to develop a mentor network immediately.

Jacob left us with this, "To any student, parent, or educator interested in PFEW: this program is transformative in the best possible way, and I encourage you to participate in any way possible. To any past, present, or prospective donors: thank you for changing my life and for your commitment to changing the lives of students for years to come. This is a truly unique experience that has had a profound effect on me, and I am honored to be able to continue participating in it."

It is we who are honored to have you, Jacob.