Jacob Franco Wadley: A Purpose Driven Journey at Stevens

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Jacob Franco-Wadley: A Purpose-Driven Journey at Stevens

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Jacob Franco-Wadley, a third-year Information Systems student at Stevens School of Business, has long subscribed to the philosophy that life is a tapestry of intentional choices. "From the people I surround myself with to the activities I engage in," everything must have a purpose, Franco-Wadley considers. And this mindset has shaped his academic journey, professional growth and personal ambitions.

Franco-Wadley grew up south of Stevens in Perth Amboy, New Jersey. Raised by a single mother, he learned from a young age the values of hard work, ambition and perhaps most importantly, resilience. "My mother worked hard to provide me with the tools for success," he reflects. "Her commitment inspires me to become the person she's always envisioned I could be." The foundation his mother helped established has continued to encourage Franco-Wadley to challenge his limits and to pursue a range of academic and professional opportunities with excitement and purpose.

He began his Stevens journey in 2022, initially as a computer science major. But as he immersed himself in campus life and progressed through his first-year coursework, he began to reevaluate his academic path. In his second year, bolstered by newfound confidence and self-awareness, Franco-Wadley made a pivotal decision to switch his major to information systems - a choice he now describes as "the best he's ever made."

This change in academic focus marked a turning point for Franco-Wadley. His grades improved dramatically, and he went from being at risk of losing his scholarship to achieving nearly a 4.0 GPA for two consecutive semesters. Now, he hopes to graduate with summa cum laude honors.

In addition to finding new purpose in his academic endeavors upon switching majors, Franco-Wadley's involvement in campus organizations like the Latin American Association and the Association of Latino Professionals for America further encouraged his development. Serving on their executive boards during his first and second years, for instance, he had the opportunity to attend leadership conventions, network with peers and hone his professional skills.

One such networking opportunity even led to his summer internship at GlobalFoundries, a semiconductor manufacturing company. A fraternity brother shared the opportunity, and Franco-Wadley seized it. At GlobalFoundries, he gained valuable experience in data analysis and human resources, eventually presenting a final project that automated data analysis to streamline operations.

Beyond his many academic and professional accomplishments, Franco-Wadley is also an entrepreneur. He runs a successful videography business and was recently featured in "Moving Forward," a multimedia series by IKEA and the media company Remezcla that showcases students' educational journeys and living spaces. This recognition highlights not only his creative skills but also his ability to balance multiple pursuits with sustained purpose and dedication.

As Franco-Wadley continues his journey at Stevens, he remains committed to helping others find their paths. Drawing now on his own experiences, he enjoys mentoring students as they navigate their own academic and professional life. "I want to give back by helping others find the confidence to pursue their goals, just as I did," he shares. After all, that sort of collegial exchange was essential to his own development and success.

Franco-Wadley's story is a testament to his pursuit of purpose and commitment to excellence. As he reflects on his own journey and prepares to take on his final years at Stevens, he advises his fellow Ducks to stay positive and to avoid trying to emulate others when the best path forward is to seek out your own path - your own purpose. His journey, shaped in equal measure by challenges, growth and success, not only reflects the spirit of Stevens, it serves as a model to all who strive to find meaning in their endeavors.

Come on a tour of Franco-Wadley's living space in the Residential Towers here:

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