An impressive achievement is that a high school senior, Giselle Maldonado, has been selected to participate in the prestigious 2024 Maryland Student Page Program, a unique initiative providing students firsthand experience of the legislative process at the Maryland General Assembly. Since its inception in 1970, the program has aimed to educate and inspire the next generation of leaders by immersing them in the workings of state government.
Initiated by House Speaker Thomas Hunter Lowe and endorsed by the Maryland State Board of Education, the program selects 105 pages and 36 alternates annually from high schools across Maryland. Participants are given a rare glimpse into the legislative proceedings in Annapolis, contributing to their academic and career aspirations in government, policy, and law.
During her week-long tenure, Maldonado engaged in various intern duties and had the opportunity to attend committee hearings, where she observed the meticulous process of how bills are introduced and deliberated upon. “My week as a Student Page for the House at the Maryland General Assembly was one of the most meaningful weeks I have experienced as a high school student,” Maldonado reflected. She highlighted the lengthier-than-expected process for a bill to become law and the enlightening experience of attending a press conference by Governor Wes Moore on juvenile justice.
Maldonado’s involvement in the program was educational and a significant networking opportunity, allowing her to connect with peers sharing similar aspirations. “I was not expecting to have made so many friends while also having fun and learning more about Maryland’s legislative process!” she exclaimed, underscoring the program’s balance of professional development and personal growth.
The Maryland Student Page Program structure allows participants to serve two nonconsecutive weeks during the legislature’s thirteen-week session, offering a comprehensive insight into the state’s legislative operations. Pages are integral to the session’s daily functions and must be present whenever the chamber is in session, ensuring they are at the heart of the legislative process.
Looking ahead, Maldonado eagerly anticipates her return to Annapolis for a second week in March, further deepening her understanding of state governance and legislative practices. “It was an incredible opportunity to see legislature at work,” she said, capturing the essence of the transformative experience offered by the Maryland Student Page Program.
Additional information is available at the official program website for those interested in learning more about the Maryland Student Page Program or considering applying. This program is a testament to Maryland’s commitment to engaging young minds in the democratic process and fostering the development of future leaders in public service.
