Hood College to Host Maryland Student Legislature

Hood College will host the fall 2026 session of the Maryland Student Legislature (MSL) on Saturday, November 6-Sunday, November 7.

190 students from across Maryland will convene on Hood’s campus to participate in the event, where students will research, write, lobby and debate mock legislation. The weekend will also feature guest speakers, including Maryland State Delegate Joe Vogel (District 17).

“Maryland Student Legislature gives students the opportunity to discuss and debate political issues in a deliberative way. The legislative simulations develop professional skills that a regular classroom cannot teach,” said Carin Robinson, Ph.D., associate professor of political science at Hood. “Hood College is excited to host the largest ever fall session in MSL history, and we believe Frederick’s central location helped make this happen. The popularity of this year’s event bodes well for the future of political engagement in Maryland.”

The Hood College MSL Delegation participates in three mock sessions throughout the year—two interim sessions each semester that rotate among different Maryland colleges and one annual session held in the House and Senate chambers in Annapolis.

Students are assigned to small committees where they discuss bills before coming together to debate as one large group in the general assembly. The sessions mirror real-world parliamentary procedures, giving students hands-on experience in state government and the legislative process.

Founded in 1989, MSL provides Maryland students with immersive experiences that foster civic engagement and nurture future leaders. MSL serves as a foundation for potential careers in government, law and public service.

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