Degree search js - this.$object.data is not a function

[cjg89]

Describe the bug

Error seems to be getting thrown on one of these two lines:
https://github.com/UCF/UCF-Degree-Search-Plugin/blob/master/src/js/ucf-degree-search.js#L30
https://github.com/UCF/UCF-Degree-Search-Plugin/blob/master/src/js/ucf-degree-search.js#L34

I'm guessing there's some scenario where this.$object isn't getting assigned a jQuery object? (line 28)

Steps to Reproduce

I've only been able to reproduce this error out in DEMO SWP on the degree search demo page; other env's using degree search typeaheads look fine.

Expected Behavior

This error shouldn't happen.

Possible Fix

n/a

Your environment:

Error observed in latest FF; haven't tested other browsers

Additional context

n/a