Hi, welcome to Jake’s Journal!

My name is Jacob Virga, and I’m in my last year at Southern Oregon University. This blog is where I’ll be sharing my reflections, course projects, and the experiences that have shaped my personal growth and grit behind it. Originally from Sacramento, I graduated from Jesuit High School, where I was fortunate to earn a basketball scholarship to SOU. Playing college ball was a dream come true. It taught me discipline, perseverance, and how to work hard toward something bigger than myself. But like life often does, things took unexpected turns. After the end of my basketball career, the passing of my coach Brian McDermott, and the end of my relationship, I realized I needed some space to breathe and rediscover my purpose. That’s when I decided to take a gap year.

During that time, I split my life between Encinitas and Sacramento, working for my brother’s real estate company. I dove headfirst into cold calling and learning about property management, client relations, and the inner workings of the real estate industry. That job didn’t just provide an income; it introduced me to the entrepreneurial mindset I now pursue daily. I’ve come to understand that entrepreneurship is about constantly evolving, finding new opportunities, networking with new faces, and building something meaningful from the ground up.

I also used my gap year to get certified as a NASM personal trainer. As an athlete, fitness has always been a cornerstone of my life, but this certification gave me the tools to turn that passion into a business. Helping others reach their health and fitness goals is incredibly rewarding. From here, I intend to grow my business, personal brand and target market. There are so many ways to “get fit”, and I love finding different ways to customize plans for my clients. 

One of my favorite things in life is experiencing new places, cultures, and activities. I’ve been lucky enough to visit some of the most exciting cities in the world. From visiting the MET and catching games in New York, to bar hopping in Nashville and soaking in the southern way of life—travel has become one of my greatest passions. I find joy in experiencing life outside the usual routine, pushing myself out of my comfort zone.

Once basketball was no longer at the center of my identity, I needed something new to fuel my competitive fire. That’s when I found Muay Thai. The discipline, focus, and raw intensity of the sport gave me exactly what I was looking for. I plan to spend an extended period training in Thailand, immersing myself in the culture and tradition of the sport. Alongside Muay Thai, I’ve also started bodybuilding. It’s a grind, but the structure and commitment it demands remind me of the basketball days. Now, though, the goals are entirely my own.

I’ve been making a conscious effort to spend more time outdoors. Whether it’s fishing in the Sierras, hitting the links for a round of golf, or exploring hidden gems in new places, I love seeing the beauty our world has to offer. These activities allow me to clear my head, reset, and stay grounded while managing the hustle of reaching my goals.

On a more personal note, I recently became an uncle. My older brother and his wife just had a baby, and I was back in Sacramento helping out—babysitting, changing diapers, the whole thing. Turns out, I’m a bit of a baby whisperer. Who knew? That said, it also confirmed that parenthood is a beautiful thing I’m definitely not rushing into. It was an eye-opener in the best way—rewarding, chaotic, and hilarious—and gave me even more respect for anyone juggling family and career.