At the University of Maryland, entrepreneurship is not just taught, but experienced. For many Terps, the spark of building a business begins on campus and continues to grow. Whether through academic challenges, student leadership, or the strength of the alumni network, here’s four alums featured on the Terp Business Directory who have turned campus lessons into thriving businesses:

Bassolino credits his engineering background from UMD for laying the groundwork of his work ethic, which led to his success in patent law. Bassolino says his education at Maryland has been “critical to [his] success.” Today, Bass Patent Law serves clients ranging from startups to Fortune 500 companies. His academic rigor at Maryland prepared him for both technical and legal challenges.

Bassonlino’s advice to future enTERPreneurs? “Don't be afraid to pursue your dreams,” he says. “But do so methodically and thoughtfully, staying focused on your goals along the way.”

Lefkowitz empowers corporate leaders to move past burnout and settle for more than "fine." Her psychology degree and leadership as Delta Gamma president at UMD gave her the tools to guide others through change. Now, she coaches executives and facilitates HR transformations for growing businesses, driven by referrals and her powerful LinkedIn presence.

“It's so important to explore why you want to launch, how you want to impact your intended clients, and to have advisory and/or coaching support along the way,” she says. “The most successful people in the world are so successful because they lean on their trusted coaches and advisors to help them gain the insight they need to be successful, both professionally and personally.”

Seidel is a nonprofit consultant and strategic relationship builder. Her double major in English Language and Literature and Theatre Performance at UMD has honed her listening, storytelling, and collaboration skills, which are tools she now uses to build coalitions like the CEO Partnership on Climate Action.

Her work shows how deeply alumni networks and communication skills can support a growing business.

“Building your business and gaining traction is a process that takes a couple of years, so the sooner you start, the better,” she recommends. “Ensure that you are constantly building your network, no matter where you are.”

Chayla Jackson ’10 (Legacy Legal & Consulting Firm and 180° Contracts) is a dynamic entrepreneur and legal strategist behind two impactful businesses. During her freshman year at the University of Maryland, Jackson, Esq., was recruited by upperclassmen to serve as Director of Public Relations for a startup, sparking her early interest in contracts and entrepreneurship. Maryland provided a foundation for her entrepreneurial development, while her studies in African American Studies strengthened her resolve to become an attorney.

“Strategic collaboration and partnership will take you further than going it alone.” She also advises, “Invest in learning how to be legally savvy to protect what you build.”

While these Terps have taken very different paths, Maryland helped shape their entrepreneurial identity.