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This version of NSU News has been archived as of February 28, 2019. To search through archived articles, visit nova.edu/search. To access the new version of NSU News, visit news.nova.edu.
This version of SharkBytes has been archived as of February 28, 2019. To search through archived articles, visit nova.edu/search. To access the new version of SharkBytes, visit sharkbytes.nova.edu.
Up-and-coming Real Estate development Student Overcomes Adversity
After ten years of working in the real estate industry, Jake Butler, a student enrolled in the Huizenga Business School’s Master of Science in Real Estate Development program, recently purchased his first commercial property. The property is a distressed 8-unit apartment building, and Jake is now in the process of completing repairs and improving its current vacancy.
Jake Butler, Master of Science in Real Estate Development student.
Jake is an aspiring entrepreneur, and contributes his recent success to the education he has received since enrolling at the Huizenga Business School. “Nova’s real estate development program has made me a better investor and future developer,” said Jake. “I’m looking forward to finishing the program as my second master’s degree, and then building or acquiring a residential or shopping center development.”
Jake has a longstanding history in the real estate industry, but more uniquely, he suffers daily from his fight with Sickle Cell Anemia (SC). SC is a chronic disease that causes the red blood cells to form a sickle “S” shape in the blood stream, thus causing a lack of blood flow to the muscles. This in-turn causes severe pain and lack of oxygen to the body, enough so that Jake spends one to three days a month in the hospital.
Jake’s personal drive helps him battle SC while pursuing his degree, and continuing his career in real estate as an investor, consultant and property manager. When asked what drives him, Jake stated that prayer and a desire to achieve what no one in his family has ever accomplished is his motivation.
“I’m thankful for Nova Southeastern University. I’m thankful for what I have been able to achieve thus far. I am thankful for each day I am able to live and continue pursuing my goals and dreams,” said Jake.