Jacob Pritchard (’26, ’27) recently earned dual bachelor’s degrees in Homeland Security and Technical Management. He is majoring in Information Security and continuing through Embry-Riddle’s accelerated pathway toward a Master of Science in Human Security and Resilience, reducing the time it takes to complete the degrees.

His connection to the university began years earlier during a Discovery Day visit at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Prescott Campus.

“I still remember that visit to Prescott,” Jacob said. “Even after everything life threw at me, attending Embry-Riddle still felt like it was meant to be.”

From Discovery Day to Worldwide & Online Leadership

After serving in the military and earning an associate degree, Jacob initially attempted online classes at another university but quickly realized the experience was not the right fit. When he revisited Embry-Riddle Worldwide & Online, he immediately noticed the difference.

“Before my first semester even started at Embry-Riddle, the support from the staff was a night-and-day difference,” he said. “Between the transfer process and the communication with my advisor, I knew this was where I needed to be.”

Working closely with Undergraduate Academic Advisor Christine Waters, Jacob found the academic direction that aligned with both his interests and long-term goals. She said:

“Jacob has been organized, proactive and persistent in completing dual undergraduate degrees, including a combined pathway to a graduate degree. He exemplifies the dedication and excellence of an Embry-Riddle Worldwide student.”

Although Jacob originally considered engineering and eventually law school, his coursework led him toward homeland security and information security — two disciplines that ultimately complemented one another.

“The information security side gave me the technical knowledge to support policy discussions and recommendations,” he said. “Together, the degrees helped shape me into a stronger security professional.”

That momentum continued when he discovered Embry-Riddle Worldwide’s Combined Program Pathways for the M.S. in Human Security and Resilience.

“What drew me to the program was the human-centered approach,” Jacob said. “It focuses on solving large-scale security challenges while keeping people at the center of the conversation.”

Redefining What an Online Student Can Achieve

For the past two years, Jacob has balanced full-time studies, student leadership and life as a stay-at-home dad. Between coursework, Student Government Association (SGA) leadership and family responsibilities, structure became essential.

His days often include school drop-offs, after-school activities, family dinners and late-night assignments. He also enjoys cooking for his family, often experimenting with new recipes while relying on a few familiar meals during busy weeks.

His interest in cooking even led to a contribution to the International Education Week Cookbook, a collaborative project created by the SGA and Student Experience departments to celebrate Embry-Riddle Worldwide’s International Education Week.

“At the end of the day, what matters most is being fully present for my family,” he said. “I had to learn how to balance ambition with the people I love most.”

That perspective shaped both his academics and leadership skills.

Over three years serving as an elected executive within Embry-Riddle Worldwide’s SGA, Jacob helped transform the organization during a period of rapid growth. Alongside Assistant Director of Student Experience James White and fellow student leaders, he established long-term systems, budgets and leadership structures designed to support future Worldwide & Online students.

“When I first joined, everyone was still trying to figure out what student government could look like in an online environment,” Jacob said. “Now there are more opportunities for students to connect, lead and build community.”

Expanding Leadership, Research and Opportunity

Jacob’s involvement also led to one of his proudest accomplishments: becoming Embry-Riddle Worldwide’s first Research Scholar.

Encouraged by faculty mentors, including Dr. Cihan Aydiner, Dr. Iulia Hoban and Dr. Christina Frederick, he immersed himself in research opportunities that expanded both his academic interests and professional aspirations.

He said access to experienced faculty helped him better understand career paths in security, law and leadership.

“The professors I’ve had have been incredibly open and accessible,” he said. “Many are working in roles at places like the FBI, in judicial positions, as authors or in network security leadership. Even the full-time faculty bring a tremendous depth of experience, and they’ve all been very willing to talk through questions and career paths.”

“The mentorship I received changed the way I saw my future,” he said. “It showed me what was possible.”

Now continuing his graduate studies in Human Security and Resilience, Jacob hopes to pursue a career in security management, risk analysis or strategic program leadership while eventually launching another entrepreneurial venture focused on building safer, more resilient communities.

Showing What’s Possible Online

Still, Jacob said one of the most meaningful parts of his Embry-Riddle journey has been proving that nontraditional students can fully experience university life — even online.

“Without Worldwide, I never would have had these opportunities,” Jacob said. “I’ve been able to earn dual degrees, conduct research, lead student organizations and build relationships with faculty and peers. I never expected to have that kind of experience as an adult student.”

His advice to future students is simple: stay curious, ask questions and get involved.

“Talk to your professors and explore every opportunity,” he said. “Worldwide gives students access to incredible faculty and experiences if they take the initiative.”

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