Discover three accomplished University of Maryland Alumni who have built successful, purpose-driven business ventures across various industries!

Meghan Gilkes '16  | HireHer Career Consulting

Meghan Gilkes is an experienced operations and government relations professional who has spent the past decade working across the United States Senate, political campaigns, and nonprofits.

Gilkes is driven by a passion for advancing women in the workplace, especially within politics. She founded HireHer, a career consulting firm dedicated to helping women acquire roles on Capitol Hill and beyond. Built from her own skills and network, HireHer is a growing community designed to empower women to succeed professionally.

As a proud University of Maryland alum, Gilkes credits her dual degree in History and Government & Politics, along with her leadership in Greek life, for shaping her confidence, ambition, and collaborative mindset. 

She remains deeply connected to the Terp community through alumni leadership and mentorship, continuing to uplift the next generation of women leaders. Find out more about HireHer in the Terp Business Directory! Gilkes' advice to hopeful EnTERPreneurs: “Your idea is good! Build on it, take advice/feedback, work on it every day, and it will become a reality.”

Margaret Carroll ‘95 | Margaret Carroll Interiors 

Margaret Carroll is the founder of Margaret Carroll Interiors, a Bethesda-based full-service interior design studio known for its architectural edge and highly personalized spaces. Carroll has years of experience in commercial and mixed-use design, stemming from her Bachelor of Science in Architecture. Carroll defines her work by spaces that feel elevated, intentional, and effortlessly livable. Carroll’s studio blends creativity with strategy, allowing her to scale her business with both purpose and precision.

Carroll recognizes her architectural education at the University of Maryland for instilling discipline, creativity, and a deep appreciation for thoughtful design. The program not only shaped her professional path but also continues to influence how she leads and evolves her business today. Carroll suggests that new EnTERPreneurs “Lean into progress over perfection–– clarity comes from taking action, not waiting for the perfect plan.” Learn more about Margaret Carroll Interiors in the Terp Business Directory!

Nicole Porcaro '07 | No Anxiety Prep

Nicole Porcaro, founder of No Anxiety Prep, has created a leading educational consulting firm focused on making the admissions process personalized and less stressful for prospective students. Since launching in 2012, her team has supported students both domestically and internationally, with services ranging from test prep to application strategy, all grounded in an individualized, student-first approach. To get more information on No Anxiety Prep, check out the Terp Business Directory.

As a University of Maryland Philip Merrill College of Journalism alum, Porcaro brings strong communication skills and confidence into both her business and classroom as a professor at Montgomery College. Her growth has been fueled by building meaningful relationships and continuously evolving her offerings to meet student needs.

Porcaro approaches her business with a clear and practical mindset, emphasizing the importance of setting strong foundations early and making sure every opportunity and agreement is clearly defined and in writing. Her advice to those striving to have their own successful business: “Always get everything in writing!”