 Jacobs took courses in Third World politics and history at several local colleges and universities, receiving grades of A's and B's.He spent much of his free time gardening or reading, and although acquaintances unwittingly urged him to become involved in political activity he refused.He spent much of his time in his basement, reading newspapers and clipping articles (especially those which told of his former Weatherman comrades resurfacing and reintegrating back into society).