By Nayana Celine Xavier, Global Classrooms DC Youth Intern for 2019-2020
Growing up, there was nothing I wanted to do more than sing. Unfortunately, I was not blessed with vocal cords that could produce the melodies I yearned for. Instead, my vocal cords were used to deliver speeches. I started public speaking at a young age and participated in local competitions.
Although I dreamed of standing under the spotlight and belting out songs, I soon realized that I could still be under the spotlight, but through different circumstances. When I entered middle school, I was all set to be part of my school’s debate team. We had debate team tryouts, and the first part of the selection process required a written persuasive essay on a given topic. I meticulously worked on my essay for weeks, editing and rewriting it. I was proud of my work. If my essay didn’t make it, I didn’t know what would!
The day results were announced, my shaky fingers opened up the email. To my surprise and confusion, I did not make the first cut. My heart dropped, and I felt every ounce of confidence in myself wither away. I couldn’t believe that I didn’t make the team! Up until that time, I had never truly experienced failure, and I hated the cold blanket of dread that surrounded me and supplanted my usual cheerful demeanor.
As I sat in anger and on the verge of tears, my friend consoled me and told me it wasn’t a big deal. She said that she was going to try out for Model UN, and that I should as well. It was during that moment of despair that I first heard the words “Model United Nations”.
Something about those words ignited a spark in me, a spark that had been let out by failure in not making the debate team. I decided to avenge my failures and tryout for the MUN team. Unbeknownst to me, as one door closed, a million others had opened. I tried out for MUN and I made it.
Fast forward to my first MUN conference, I strode into committee confidently, expecting to be the best in the room. I thought my past public speaking experiences would give me an upper hand in committee. I had never been so wrong. I was surrounded by incredible delegates that were able to deliver compelling speeches and propose well-rounded solutions. I was awe of those amazing delegates, and I realized I had greatly overestimated my abilities. That day, I learned about the power of humility. No matter how great I think I am, there will always be another person who is smarter, more experienced, and better at MUN. But I can strive to learn from that delegate and work to be the best delegate, person, and leader I possibly can.
The willingness and ability to accept and learn from others and one’s own mistakes is what pushes us forward. It is what separates a good delegate from the best delegate. Model United Nations has been an integral part of my education and teenage years, making me more aware and connected to a myriad of issues that face our world today.
After participating in a UNEP committee with the topic of discussion on electronic waste (e-waste), I realized that my community was not aware of the environmentally sound management of e- waste. I set up an e-waste drive and received an overwhelming response. Not only was my community able to properly dispose of their electronic waste, but they also became better informed on the issue and became aware of local e-waste disposal facilities.
My participation in one MUN conference resonated greater change in my community, and in myself. Awareness is the first step in addressing any issue, no matter how big or small it may be. MUN makes you aware, and it equips you with the knowledge to take action. MUN has also taught me how to effectively work with others. Several times during committee, you are met with backlash and little support for your solutions. It can be frustrating to have your work be completely disregarded. But you succeed when you’re able to direct that frustration into progress. Compromise is paramount in solving any problem, whether that be in MUN or in life. It requires us to see beyond our personal pursuits and work for a greater goal.
Most of all, MUN has shown me the path of perseverance. Every working paper that failed, every block that dismantled, and every award that was passed over has made me stronger. We have an incredible will, and the obstacles in our path serve to remind us of this will. I have learned to never give up and try till the very last second, for there is always a chance of success.
MUN has opened my eyes to the world, to others, and to myself. Model United Nations has forever changed my life. It transformed me as an individual, leading me to find victories within my greatest failures.
The UNA-NCA blog will provide a space for more personal pieces on events and issues written by committee leaders, volunteers, and staff. The views in this blog do not necessarily reflect the views of UNA-NCA.
Showing posts with label Why MUN Matters. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Why MUN Matters. Show all posts
Thursday, January 23, 2020
Friday, June 7, 2019
Why MUN Matters: Asking the Big Questions
By Ghina Sabeh Aayoun
Finalist for 2019 Student Secretary-General of the Spring Model UN Conference
Lebanese American University
Three months into my 3rd year in middle school, I crossed paths with a very unusual word as I was going to class. Plastered over a large poster on the notice board in the corridor were three letters: “MUN”. Curiosity got the best of me that day, and I was compelled to ask my teacher what that word meant. Little did I know that that word was about to stimulate an era of growth in mindset and revolutionize the way I view the world.
Not only has MUN changed my life, it has given me the opportunity to develop political awareness I wouldn’t have otherwise developed.
Later that year, I went on to participate in three conferences. I arrived to the first one with my knees clattering and my fists sweating buckets. I delivered my first speech ever with much of that nervousness still lodged in every corner of me. As those sixty pairs of eyes staring at me from across the enormous room, I felt vulnerable. My first conference was a train wreck, but I loved it. I looked up to those delegates who were so confident, so sharp, and so determined, and I viewed them as idols. “This is what I want to become”. I set a goal and I pursued it because Model United Nations ignited that spark in me. It opened up the door for me to discover the many things I can be, and in turn allowed me to revisit how I handle myself, and how I view the world.
Away from the field action though, MUN has also done me favors behind the scenes. The task seemed fairly simple - research, represent, resolve. But like all searches conducted on the internet, one thing led to the other. As I was researching, I found myself asking some big questions. Who has power? Is it the stakeholders? Who limits power? Does power really lie in the hands of the people or are democracies dying? These questions aren’t ones we would expect a thirteen-year old to be asking. The political awareness generated by the extensive reading required in Model United Nations allowed me to develop opinions.
The initiative to change one’s character, the development of opinions on polarizing subjects, those are huge milestones in my life I can only thank that strange word I saw on that poster. So, for that I say, thank you, MUN.
Finalist for 2019 Student Secretary-General of the Spring Model UN Conference
Lebanese American University
Three months into my 3rd year in middle school, I crossed paths with a very unusual word as I was going to class. Plastered over a large poster on the notice board in the corridor were three letters: “MUN”. Curiosity got the best of me that day, and I was compelled to ask my teacher what that word meant. Little did I know that that word was about to stimulate an era of growth in mindset and revolutionize the way I view the world.
Not only has MUN changed my life, it has given me the opportunity to develop political awareness I wouldn’t have otherwise developed.
Later that year, I went on to participate in three conferences. I arrived to the first one with my knees clattering and my fists sweating buckets. I delivered my first speech ever with much of that nervousness still lodged in every corner of me. As those sixty pairs of eyes staring at me from across the enormous room, I felt vulnerable. My first conference was a train wreck, but I loved it. I looked up to those delegates who were so confident, so sharp, and so determined, and I viewed them as idols. “This is what I want to become”. I set a goal and I pursued it because Model United Nations ignited that spark in me. It opened up the door for me to discover the many things I can be, and in turn allowed me to revisit how I handle myself, and how I view the world.
Away from the field action though, MUN has also done me favors behind the scenes. The task seemed fairly simple - research, represent, resolve. But like all searches conducted on the internet, one thing led to the other. As I was researching, I found myself asking some big questions. Who has power? Is it the stakeholders? Who limits power? Does power really lie in the hands of the people or are democracies dying? These questions aren’t ones we would expect a thirteen-year old to be asking. The political awareness generated by the extensive reading required in Model United Nations allowed me to develop opinions.
The initiative to change one’s character, the development of opinions on polarizing subjects, those are huge milestones in my life I can only thank that strange word I saw on that poster. So, for that I say, thank you, MUN.
Wednesday, May 29, 2019
Why MUN Matters: We Can Shake the World
By Fatemeh Naghavinia
2019 Student Secretary-General of the Spring Model UN Conference
9th Grader from Muslim Community School/Alim Academy
The struggle for justice often is the distinction between morality and immorality. Model United Nations, a learning experience in which students role-play delegates to the United Nations and simulate UN committees, is truly an opportunity for us youth to step up, take responsibility for the world’s issues, and put them to rest, one by one.
An important aspect of being involved in MUN is how it facilitates research and teamwork skills, along with the aptitude of public speaking. Researching for MUN has taught me two fundamental lessons: to not position myself along one ideology and to act as an open-minded, global citizen when presented with unfamiliar views on certain issues. MUN has taught me that I don’t need to only support the “marketable” opinion to be able to solve a problem; creativity and open-mindedness serve as a segue to successful diplomacy. Speaking as a delegate in MUN has also served as an outlet for me to lay out my ideas and opinions to a broader audience, as well as advance my public speaking skills.
The blessing of having MUN as a platform for everyone from every race and every religion to be able to freely express their opinions is an esteemed privilege. Children have often been disciplined to remain within their inner circles and seldom associate themselves with those from different backgrounds—this dissociation has bred the seeds of systemized discrimination and prejudice in our communities. MUN is able to extinguish the stigma of that mentality, and equipped me with a mentality to consider one’s personality and views from the inside, rather than what society paints them as.
I—as a hijabi, Iranian-American Muslim—have always been encouraged to express my thoughts and opinions, and to never be afraid to stand up for what I believe in. MUN nurtures that sense of responsibility, and encourages me to not only educate myself about ongoing problems, but also to work as a delegate in a communal force aimed at advocating for the silenced.
MUN truly serves as an opportunity to prove to adults that although we—the youth—have our flaws, our strengths are prominent as well. MUN has nurtured and grown those strengths, and given me the voice and mentality I have today. Many of us are driven to create equality between races and religions, but seldom find the willpower or the platform to do so. It was MUN that gave me the confidence to speak out, to voice my opinions and concerns to the world, to believe that I can, and WE CAN shake the world.
2019 Student Secretary-General of the Spring Model UN Conference
9th Grader from Muslim Community School/Alim Academy
The struggle for justice often is the distinction between morality and immorality. Model United Nations, a learning experience in which students role-play delegates to the United Nations and simulate UN committees, is truly an opportunity for us youth to step up, take responsibility for the world’s issues, and put them to rest, one by one.
An important aspect of being involved in MUN is how it facilitates research and teamwork skills, along with the aptitude of public speaking. Researching for MUN has taught me two fundamental lessons: to not position myself along one ideology and to act as an open-minded, global citizen when presented with unfamiliar views on certain issues. MUN has taught me that I don’t need to only support the “marketable” opinion to be able to solve a problem; creativity and open-mindedness serve as a segue to successful diplomacy. Speaking as a delegate in MUN has also served as an outlet for me to lay out my ideas and opinions to a broader audience, as well as advance my public speaking skills.
The blessing of having MUN as a platform for everyone from every race and every religion to be able to freely express their opinions is an esteemed privilege. Children have often been disciplined to remain within their inner circles and seldom associate themselves with those from different backgrounds—this dissociation has bred the seeds of systemized discrimination and prejudice in our communities. MUN is able to extinguish the stigma of that mentality, and equipped me with a mentality to consider one’s personality and views from the inside, rather than what society paints them as.
I—as a hijabi, Iranian-American Muslim—have always been encouraged to express my thoughts and opinions, and to never be afraid to stand up for what I believe in. MUN nurtures that sense of responsibility, and encourages me to not only educate myself about ongoing problems, but also to work as a delegate in a communal force aimed at advocating for the silenced.
MUN truly serves as an opportunity to prove to adults that although we—the youth—have our flaws, our strengths are prominent as well. MUN has nurtured and grown those strengths, and given me the voice and mentality I have today. Many of us are driven to create equality between races and religions, but seldom find the willpower or the platform to do so. It was MUN that gave me the confidence to speak out, to voice my opinions and concerns to the world, to believe that I can, and WE CAN shake the world.
Tuesday, August 21, 2018
Why MUN Matters - "The Most Rewarding Activity That I Have Ever Done"
By Susie Wang
Susie is a full-time graduate student at the George Washington University’s Elliott School of International Affairs. She is now participating in an exchange program with the University of Sydney this fall to advance her professional knowledge in the Asia-Pacific region. Originally from Wuhan, China, Susie has had seven years of Model UN experience.
My teacher Mr. Ding introduced Model UN to me when I was a freshman in high school. Growing up in China, I did not care much about politics and barely knew anything related to international affairs. I just regarded Model UN as a good opportunity for me to improve my language skills and would like to challenge myself because it requires the participants to negotiate, give speeches, and write papers in English.
My first MUN conference was held here in Washington, D.C. At that time, I was intimidated by those American students. Although I never considered myself as a shy kid that is not willing to speak in public, it was still challenging for me to engage in the meeting because I did not really understand the language and all of the other delegates looked taller and stronger than me. I ended up skipping most of the sessions and having pizzas with my Chinese friends. As a little girl, who only craved for pizzas, I could never imagine that I would become a graduate student studying in the school that is located in downtown D.C. with a major of international affairs. I became who I am because of MUN.
When I went back to China after my first and embarrassing MUN conference, I decided to participate in several MUN conferences in China and started to introduce this activity to some of my classmates. As the leader of the MUN team in our school, I designed and facilitated MUN workshops to help the kids to get a better understanding about the MUN rules and procedures, as well as world affairs. I even wrote letters to their parents explaining how MUN can benefit their kids. I continued my cause of promoting MUN when I was in college and I started to go to those regional and national conferences where I met students from all around the country.
MUN turned out to be the most rewarding activity that I have ever done. Since I would regard each time representing a nation the chance to speak for the country after solitary researching, pondering and discussing, my participation into each conference would start at several weeks before the real meeting, if not immediately after the topic being revealed to us. Only with weeks of retrieving and studying as many important documents regarding the conference topic as I could reach would I be ensured a positive possibility of good performance. In addition to personal preparation, capacities of communication and teamwork were also indispensable, as the realization of the maximum common interests among the bloc could only achieve after bloc members working out a proper Draft Resolution and a satisfying plan to lobby the Draft Resolution together, and fulfilling a successful debate with the competing bloc. Throughout times of UN conferences, I did hone myself greatly in those abilities and being a leader more often than not in the blocs I belonged to, I also developed my leadership greatly.
On top of the development of my abilities, I received remarkable exposure to various topics relating to international relations, such as economic development, international security, environment protection, as well as disarmament. When preparing the meetings for those topics, I cultivated in myself a passion in international relations through the process of studying the international hot topics and of figuring out my thinking of solutions. In most of my attempts, I would apply the liberalism believing that the international community could keep an order in the constraints and coordination regarding international organizations and international laws, and states could coordinate their conflicts through channels including institutional arrangements, social interactions, trades, and contracts.
The past efforts to establish international organizations and norms have contributed to today's relatively orderly and peaceful situation: we can work together to face global problems. Being convinced of the significance of international organizations, I was looking forward to making my contributions to the cause. That is why I decided to study International Affairs in graduate school, regardless of the fact that it is such an unpopular major among my Chinese peers. MUN not only helped me to find the direction of my life but also shaped my personality. It encouraged me to not just be satisfied with what I got, but to care about the suffering of mankind. It inspired me to be kind, patient, and respect the opponent since I need to work with people from different backgrounds and with different interests all the time. I also got a lot of close friends, because MUN allowed me to meet people who are also interested in international affairs, public speaking, debates, and English (as a second language).
Now, I worked as a program assistant at Global Classroom DC, my team and I are working to design curriculums and workshops that introduce global issues and MUN to middle school and high school students. I am so excited to continue to be an advocator and educator for MUN and international affairs, and I firmly believe that it is beneficial to all.
Susie is a full-time graduate student at the George Washington University’s Elliott School of International Affairs. She is now participating in an exchange program with the University of Sydney this fall to advance her professional knowledge in the Asia-Pacific region. Originally from Wuhan, China, Susie has had seven years of Model UN experience.
My teacher Mr. Ding introduced Model UN to me when I was a freshman in high school. Growing up in China, I did not care much about politics and barely knew anything related to international affairs. I just regarded Model UN as a good opportunity for me to improve my language skills and would like to challenge myself because it requires the participants to negotiate, give speeches, and write papers in English.
My first MUN conference was held here in Washington, D.C. At that time, I was intimidated by those American students. Although I never considered myself as a shy kid that is not willing to speak in public, it was still challenging for me to engage in the meeting because I did not really understand the language and all of the other delegates looked taller and stronger than me. I ended up skipping most of the sessions and having pizzas with my Chinese friends. As a little girl, who only craved for pizzas, I could never imagine that I would become a graduate student studying in the school that is located in downtown D.C. with a major of international affairs. I became who I am because of MUN.
When I went back to China after my first and embarrassing MUN conference, I decided to participate in several MUN conferences in China and started to introduce this activity to some of my classmates. As the leader of the MUN team in our school, I designed and facilitated MUN workshops to help the kids to get a better understanding about the MUN rules and procedures, as well as world affairs. I even wrote letters to their parents explaining how MUN can benefit their kids. I continued my cause of promoting MUN when I was in college and I started to go to those regional and national conferences where I met students from all around the country.
MUN turned out to be the most rewarding activity that I have ever done. Since I would regard each time representing a nation the chance to speak for the country after solitary researching, pondering and discussing, my participation into each conference would start at several weeks before the real meeting, if not immediately after the topic being revealed to us. Only with weeks of retrieving and studying as many important documents regarding the conference topic as I could reach would I be ensured a positive possibility of good performance. In addition to personal preparation, capacities of communication and teamwork were also indispensable, as the realization of the maximum common interests among the bloc could only achieve after bloc members working out a proper Draft Resolution and a satisfying plan to lobby the Draft Resolution together, and fulfilling a successful debate with the competing bloc. Throughout times of UN conferences, I did hone myself greatly in those abilities and being a leader more often than not in the blocs I belonged to, I also developed my leadership greatly.
On top of the development of my abilities, I received remarkable exposure to various topics relating to international relations, such as economic development, international security, environment protection, as well as disarmament. When preparing the meetings for those topics, I cultivated in myself a passion in international relations through the process of studying the international hot topics and of figuring out my thinking of solutions. In most of my attempts, I would apply the liberalism believing that the international community could keep an order in the constraints and coordination regarding international organizations and international laws, and states could coordinate their conflicts through channels including institutional arrangements, social interactions, trades, and contracts.
The past efforts to establish international organizations and norms have contributed to today's relatively orderly and peaceful situation: we can work together to face global problems. Being convinced of the significance of international organizations, I was looking forward to making my contributions to the cause. That is why I decided to study International Affairs in graduate school, regardless of the fact that it is such an unpopular major among my Chinese peers. MUN not only helped me to find the direction of my life but also shaped my personality. It encouraged me to not just be satisfied with what I got, but to care about the suffering of mankind. It inspired me to be kind, patient, and respect the opponent since I need to work with people from different backgrounds and with different interests all the time. I also got a lot of close friends, because MUN allowed me to meet people who are also interested in international affairs, public speaking, debates, and English (as a second language).
Now, I worked as a program assistant at Global Classroom DC, my team and I are working to design curriculums and workshops that introduce global issues and MUN to middle school and high school students. I am so excited to continue to be an advocator and educator for MUN and international affairs, and I firmly believe that it is beneficial to all.
Friday, August 10, 2018
Why MUN Matters: Connecting With My Peers
By Takhmina Nasimova
Takhmina is a Summer 2018 Program Assistant for the UNA-NCA Global Classrooms DC program. She is an undergraduate student at the George Washington University's Elliott School of International Affairs, with a concentration in International Economics and Minor in Russian Studies.
Many ask me what it is like to be part of the Model United Nations, I always reply, “the Model United Nations is the conference that everyone must participate in at least once in their lifetime. The Model United Nations Conference helps young students to develop essential skills to succeed in life as well as to become active citizens of their country.”
I immigrated to the United States together with my family when I was fourteen, a dangerous age when everything catches my attention and interest. At this point of life, it is important to be surrounded with right people and stay away from all the wrong temptations. Luckily, one of the teachers at my high school has started an International Studies Club that caught my attention. Already, at age fourteen I was into politics and international affairs due to its influence on my family’s and mine life.
Way before moving to the United States my family was forced to leave our home country Tajikistan due to Civil War and move to Uzbekistan. I spent most of my childhood and teenage years in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Political discussions would take place every family dinner since some of our relatives were still in Tajikistan. Questions like “How did international community react on the issue of Civil War in Tajikistan,” or “Who provided aid to Tajikistan…” would be asked constantly in our household and inspired me to become an advocate for human rights at the same time a representative of all people that are influenced by wars, natural disasters and epidemics.
Back to my high school teacher, she did a great job of gathering all the students in an International Studies Club and introducing us with great activities such as the Model United Nations. Some people say that the Model United Nations Conference is an unnecessary extracurricular activity that wastes students’ time. However, I strongly disagree because I believe that the Model United Nations clubs and conferences help students to develop the skills that are often missed or replaced at public and private schools. For instance, during the club meetings, we would practice several skills and prepare for the conference. One of the most important skills that I learned during these club meetings are public speaking, negotiation and networking. It used to be extremely hard for me to participate in class discussions or accept others opinion on certain issues. But participating in different activities with my peers during the club meetings helped me to develop effective speaking, networking and negotiation skills.
At my first conference, everything I learned during my club meetings helped me to network with different delegates, negotiate with nonnegotiable and stubborn delegates and be confidence to speak in front of the audience. Some may say that MUN is just a simulation of the UN committee and bodies; in my opinion, MUN is more than a simulation. The Model United Nations is the whole new level of education that teaches young students about diplomacy and the importance of the international relations. In order to represent a country, students need to research and get to know the country’s policies, relations, priorities, and restrictions in the most accurate way. The Model United Nations was a first formal conference I attended. It was very intense but at the same time very effective in helping me to develop skills including leadership, teamwork, public speaking, negotiation, and writing.
After graduated from high school, I went to community college for my Associate Degree where with my professor’s help I was able to establish International Studies Club and even add the Model United Nations Conference at one of the political science course’s curriculum. In this course, we learned the international affairs concepts from textbooks but practiced the skills through participating at the International Model United Nations. I was assigned as the head of delegation because of my excellency in leadership and networking that I was trained in previous years of participation at the MUN Conferences. During the international conference, my delegation and I have met many different students from all over the world who were passionate about internal affairs of their countries and international affairs. By the end of the conference, my delegation was awarded distinguished delegates.
I am thankful for my high school teacher for introducing me to such life changing conference -- MUN. Today, I feel honored to be part of the UNA-NCA GCDC as Program Assistant and work on designing and improving the curriculum for the middle and high school students.
Takhmina is a Summer 2018 Program Assistant for the UNA-NCA Global Classrooms DC program. She is an undergraduate student at the George Washington University's Elliott School of International Affairs, with a concentration in International Economics and Minor in Russian Studies.
I immigrated to the United States together with my family when I was fourteen, a dangerous age when everything catches my attention and interest. At this point of life, it is important to be surrounded with right people and stay away from all the wrong temptations. Luckily, one of the teachers at my high school has started an International Studies Club that caught my attention. Already, at age fourteen I was into politics and international affairs due to its influence on my family’s and mine life.
Way before moving to the United States my family was forced to leave our home country Tajikistan due to Civil War and move to Uzbekistan. I spent most of my childhood and teenage years in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Political discussions would take place every family dinner since some of our relatives were still in Tajikistan. Questions like “How did international community react on the issue of Civil War in Tajikistan,” or “Who provided aid to Tajikistan…” would be asked constantly in our household and inspired me to become an advocate for human rights at the same time a representative of all people that are influenced by wars, natural disasters and epidemics.
Back to my high school teacher, she did a great job of gathering all the students in an International Studies Club and introducing us with great activities such as the Model United Nations. Some people say that the Model United Nations Conference is an unnecessary extracurricular activity that wastes students’ time. However, I strongly disagree because I believe that the Model United Nations clubs and conferences help students to develop the skills that are often missed or replaced at public and private schools. For instance, during the club meetings, we would practice several skills and prepare for the conference. One of the most important skills that I learned during these club meetings are public speaking, negotiation and networking. It used to be extremely hard for me to participate in class discussions or accept others opinion on certain issues. But participating in different activities with my peers during the club meetings helped me to develop effective speaking, networking and negotiation skills.
At my first conference, everything I learned during my club meetings helped me to network with different delegates, negotiate with nonnegotiable and stubborn delegates and be confidence to speak in front of the audience. Some may say that MUN is just a simulation of the UN committee and bodies; in my opinion, MUN is more than a simulation. The Model United Nations is the whole new level of education that teaches young students about diplomacy and the importance of the international relations. In order to represent a country, students need to research and get to know the country’s policies, relations, priorities, and restrictions in the most accurate way. The Model United Nations was a first formal conference I attended. It was very intense but at the same time very effective in helping me to develop skills including leadership, teamwork, public speaking, negotiation, and writing.
After graduated from high school, I went to community college for my Associate Degree where with my professor’s help I was able to establish International Studies Club and even add the Model United Nations Conference at one of the political science course’s curriculum. In this course, we learned the international affairs concepts from textbooks but practiced the skills through participating at the International Model United Nations. I was assigned as the head of delegation because of my excellency in leadership and networking that I was trained in previous years of participation at the MUN Conferences. During the international conference, my delegation and I have met many different students from all over the world who were passionate about internal affairs of their countries and international affairs. By the end of the conference, my delegation was awarded distinguished delegates.
I am thankful for my high school teacher for introducing me to such life changing conference -- MUN. Today, I feel honored to be part of the UNA-NCA GCDC as Program Assistant and work on designing and improving the curriculum for the middle and high school students.
Saturday, August 4, 2018
Why MUN Matters: Gaining a Different Perspective
By Megha Thomas
Megha is a Summer 2018 Youth Intern for the UNA-NCA Global Classrooms DC program. She is a rising junior at Princeton Day School in New Jersey. She co-founded a club called Light-A-Mind, which is dedicated to increasing children’s access to education, and is an active member of her school's Model UN club.
After stumbling through my very first Model UN simulation at Princeton Day School in freshman year, I was convinced that Model UN was not for me. However, the Secretariat decided to give me a shot, and today, I could not be more grateful for that opportunity: the opportunity to learn, speak, and grow as a global citizen.
Model UN quite literally opened my eyes to a multitude of perspectives that I never knew existed. First off, through Model UN, I have gained an inside perspective to the United Nations and seen General Assembly and Specialized Committees in action. Through moderated and unmoderated caucuses, question-and-answer sessions, and presentations, I have had the opportunity to listen and speak on numerous topics while stepping into a change-maker’s shoes and making changes of my own inside a committee session.
Since my freshman year, I have attended 5 national and international conferences and have had a completely different experience in every one. Representing different countries have opened my eyes to what other countries around the globe think about real world issues, not just the United States’ stance. Although I may never again use my research on the number of refugees Iceland accepts annually or Algeria’s issues with food security, writing position papers and participating in committee sessions have made me a more educated, global citizen, and I definitely have a variety of fun facts to choose from when conversing on modern-day issues.
Finally, and probably the most important, I have acquired an external perspective of how one person, or a group of people, can make changes to the world. Learning more about the Sustainable Development Goals and pressing worldwide issues has fueled my desire to brainstorm creative solutions and help those in need. This aspect of Model UN may not happen inside a conference room, but its roots and inspiration lie there.
While Model UN may come off as a lot of debating, it truly is a team sport. Working together is crucial in Model UN and often turns into the best aspect of any conference. Forming blocs and alliances are often the foundations of friendship for me in any conference, and negotiating and compromising on solutions is the heart of the sport. Ultimately, Model UN has taught me about community, whether that be my PDS MUN team, the delegates in my committees, or our global community. Communities work together.
The biggest piece of advice I can give to any first-timer in Model UN is to put yourself out there and take risks. It may seem intimidating to speak in front of a hundred people or make a controversial stance on an issue, but these steps help fuel your ideas to be out-of-the-box and original, along with making yourself stand out to other delegates. Truly, taking risks in Model UN ends up being like an experiment and helps you to believe in yourself.
Model UN has made me stressed while writing clauses and scrambling to turn in a resolution paper on time, but it is also one of the most thrilling experiences for any globally-interested citizen; it’s never too late to start! I am truly grateful for every bloc, friendship, and committee session I have had in Model UN. Model UN has made me confident, a leader, and someone I am proud of.
Megha is a Summer 2018 Youth Intern for the UNA-NCA Global Classrooms DC program. She is a rising junior at Princeton Day School in New Jersey. She co-founded a club called Light-A-Mind, which is dedicated to increasing children’s access to education, and is an active member of her school's Model UN club.
After stumbling through my very first Model UN simulation at Princeton Day School in freshman year, I was convinced that Model UN was not for me. However, the Secretariat decided to give me a shot, and today, I could not be more grateful for that opportunity: the opportunity to learn, speak, and grow as a global citizen.
Model UN quite literally opened my eyes to a multitude of perspectives that I never knew existed. First off, through Model UN, I have gained an inside perspective to the United Nations and seen General Assembly and Specialized Committees in action. Through moderated and unmoderated caucuses, question-and-answer sessions, and presentations, I have had the opportunity to listen and speak on numerous topics while stepping into a change-maker’s shoes and making changes of my own inside a committee session.
Since my freshman year, I have attended 5 national and international conferences and have had a completely different experience in every one. Representing different countries have opened my eyes to what other countries around the globe think about real world issues, not just the United States’ stance. Although I may never again use my research on the number of refugees Iceland accepts annually or Algeria’s issues with food security, writing position papers and participating in committee sessions have made me a more educated, global citizen, and I definitely have a variety of fun facts to choose from when conversing on modern-day issues.
Finally, and probably the most important, I have acquired an external perspective of how one person, or a group of people, can make changes to the world. Learning more about the Sustainable Development Goals and pressing worldwide issues has fueled my desire to brainstorm creative solutions and help those in need. This aspect of Model UN may not happen inside a conference room, but its roots and inspiration lie there.
While Model UN may come off as a lot of debating, it truly is a team sport. Working together is crucial in Model UN and often turns into the best aspect of any conference. Forming blocs and alliances are often the foundations of friendship for me in any conference, and negotiating and compromising on solutions is the heart of the sport. Ultimately, Model UN has taught me about community, whether that be my PDS MUN team, the delegates in my committees, or our global community. Communities work together.
The biggest piece of advice I can give to any first-timer in Model UN is to put yourself out there and take risks. It may seem intimidating to speak in front of a hundred people or make a controversial stance on an issue, but these steps help fuel your ideas to be out-of-the-box and original, along with making yourself stand out to other delegates. Truly, taking risks in Model UN ends up being like an experiment and helps you to believe in yourself.
Model UN has made me stressed while writing clauses and scrambling to turn in a resolution paper on time, but it is also one of the most thrilling experiences for any globally-interested citizen; it’s never too late to start! I am truly grateful for every bloc, friendship, and committee session I have had in Model UN. Model UN has made me confident, a leader, and someone I am proud of.
Friday, July 27, 2018
Why MUN Matters: Connect With New Friends and Solve Issues Quickly
By Jackson Malmgren
Jackson is a Summer 2018 Program Assistant for the UNA-NCA Global Classrooms DC program. He is an undergraduate at American University majoring in international relations, and will focus on foreign policy. He brings with him five years of Model UN experience.
Model UN, much like the real United Nations, revolves around diplomacy. Diplomacy encompasses so many life skills, including creative thinking, problem solving, and negotiation, that cannot simply be taught in school. In elementary school, teachers encourage creativity and want students to ask why, but as kids get older, the curiosity fades. Model UN teaches kids to ask questions again. When representing a country, it’s not enough to say “we support refugees” or “we oppose nuclear weapons,” you have to ask why your country believes this. Trying to answer one question leads to more questions, more information about the topic, and a greater understanding of the country, its opinions, and the issue itself.
I had a tough time getting used to this, I liked facts to be plain and simple and tell me exactly what I needed. During my first conference in my sophomore year of high school, I represented New Zealand on the United Nations Environmental Programme on the topic of deforestation in the Amazon. It is very difficult to find information on a topic that is half a world away, and I realized that I have to ask a lot of questions before I can truly understand an opinion.
Each Model UN committee focuses on a general problem and gives delegates free reign to explore solutions. From combating money laundering in Europe to arms trafficking in Central America, Model UN encourages delegates to break down massive issues into dozens of smaller, solvable problems. Slowly, one by one, delegates discuss with each other potential solutions for each of the small problems. After analyzing all sides, groups begin to put pen to paper and craft elaborate, creative solutions to all aspects of a central issue. There are always going to be problems in life; Model UN gives people the skills to solve them.
Two years later, I represented Ukraine on the Security Council. This placed me at a huge disadvantage, as this was at the height of the Russian intervention in Ukraine. Facing an adversary with a veto power, I focused on solutions that many other members were sympathetic to and would put Russia on the defensive end if they chose to move forward with plans of their own. A lot of analysis went into these solutions, we chose to host Syrian peace talks in Astana, Kazakhstan because of similar cultural values, precedent, and neutrality.
However, not everyone is going to agree on solutions to problems, or even that there is a problem at all. At this point, delegates negotiate with the goal of finding a solution acceptable by all sides. Sometimes these negotiations are successful, other times it simply does not work out and a new group emerges. In some cases, there is a limit to how many written resolutions there can be, and you negotiate with the other side usually late into the night, line by line, to weave together a cohesive resolution.
In order to try out for my college’s Model UN team, I needed to participate in a practice simulation. I was given Japan in a General Assembly focusing on the North Korean nuclear crisis. While a great position, it meant that I would likely be following in the footsteps of other larger countries, something that I resolved not to do. While I stuck with my traditional allies, the US and South Korea, I talked with several southeast Asian countries and recruited a few to join our bloc. Because I was the one making connections with them, they wound up backing many of my ideas. This elevated me to a position where I could negotiate as a major player with the other big countries.
Diplomacy is not about beating the other side, but painting an accurate picture of your country’s hopes, dreams, fears, ambitions, goals, culture, and overarching beliefs. Diplomacy is working with people representing literally every part of the world to find a solution to a problem that seems impossible. But like Nelson Mandela said, “it always seems impossible until it is done.”
While I’m proud of my Model UN work, I’m even more thankful that it translated over into other aspects of my life. Model UN has given me newfound respect when I travel abroad and has undoubtedly propelled me forward in my international relations major. Model UN has helped me connect with new friends and solve issues quickly.
There are other aspects about Model UN that are important; knowing how to speak on your feet, conduct extensive research, and defend your ideas are all worthwhile skills to learn for anyone in any field. However, in the end, the various diplomatic skills I have developed through Model UN are some of the most versatile and useful abilities I have. I would not be the person I am today without the Model UN experiences that have shaped me.
Jackson is a Summer 2018 Program Assistant for the UNA-NCA Global Classrooms DC program. He is an undergraduate at American University majoring in international relations, and will focus on foreign policy. He brings with him five years of Model UN experience.
Model UN, much like the real United Nations, revolves around diplomacy. Diplomacy encompasses so many life skills, including creative thinking, problem solving, and negotiation, that cannot simply be taught in school. In elementary school, teachers encourage creativity and want students to ask why, but as kids get older, the curiosity fades. Model UN teaches kids to ask questions again. When representing a country, it’s not enough to say “we support refugees” or “we oppose nuclear weapons,” you have to ask why your country believes this. Trying to answer one question leads to more questions, more information about the topic, and a greater understanding of the country, its opinions, and the issue itself.
I had a tough time getting used to this, I liked facts to be plain and simple and tell me exactly what I needed. During my first conference in my sophomore year of high school, I represented New Zealand on the United Nations Environmental Programme on the topic of deforestation in the Amazon. It is very difficult to find information on a topic that is half a world away, and I realized that I have to ask a lot of questions before I can truly understand an opinion.
Each Model UN committee focuses on a general problem and gives delegates free reign to explore solutions. From combating money laundering in Europe to arms trafficking in Central America, Model UN encourages delegates to break down massive issues into dozens of smaller, solvable problems. Slowly, one by one, delegates discuss with each other potential solutions for each of the small problems. After analyzing all sides, groups begin to put pen to paper and craft elaborate, creative solutions to all aspects of a central issue. There are always going to be problems in life; Model UN gives people the skills to solve them.
Two years later, I represented Ukraine on the Security Council. This placed me at a huge disadvantage, as this was at the height of the Russian intervention in Ukraine. Facing an adversary with a veto power, I focused on solutions that many other members were sympathetic to and would put Russia on the defensive end if they chose to move forward with plans of their own. A lot of analysis went into these solutions, we chose to host Syrian peace talks in Astana, Kazakhstan because of similar cultural values, precedent, and neutrality.
However, not everyone is going to agree on solutions to problems, or even that there is a problem at all. At this point, delegates negotiate with the goal of finding a solution acceptable by all sides. Sometimes these negotiations are successful, other times it simply does not work out and a new group emerges. In some cases, there is a limit to how many written resolutions there can be, and you negotiate with the other side usually late into the night, line by line, to weave together a cohesive resolution.
In order to try out for my college’s Model UN team, I needed to participate in a practice simulation. I was given Japan in a General Assembly focusing on the North Korean nuclear crisis. While a great position, it meant that I would likely be following in the footsteps of other larger countries, something that I resolved not to do. While I stuck with my traditional allies, the US and South Korea, I talked with several southeast Asian countries and recruited a few to join our bloc. Because I was the one making connections with them, they wound up backing many of my ideas. This elevated me to a position where I could negotiate as a major player with the other big countries.
Diplomacy is not about beating the other side, but painting an accurate picture of your country’s hopes, dreams, fears, ambitions, goals, culture, and overarching beliefs. Diplomacy is working with people representing literally every part of the world to find a solution to a problem that seems impossible. But like Nelson Mandela said, “it always seems impossible until it is done.”
While I’m proud of my Model UN work, I’m even more thankful that it translated over into other aspects of my life. Model UN has given me newfound respect when I travel abroad and has undoubtedly propelled me forward in my international relations major. Model UN has helped me connect with new friends and solve issues quickly.
There are other aspects about Model UN that are important; knowing how to speak on your feet, conduct extensive research, and defend your ideas are all worthwhile skills to learn for anyone in any field. However, in the end, the various diplomatic skills I have developed through Model UN are some of the most versatile and useful abilities I have. I would not be the person I am today without the Model UN experiences that have shaped me.
Wednesday, June 6, 2018
Why MUN Matters: Networking & Advocacy
By Thomas Liu
Finalist for the 2018 Student Secretary-General of the Spring Model UN Conference
12th Grader at Langley High School in McLean, VA
This year, my five-year long Model UN career ended. As the new secretariat of Langley High School’s MUN team was elected, the seniors officially said goodbye one last time. As I sat and reflected on my MUN memories, I asked myself the essential questions: why I do MUN and what does MUN mean to me?
As an immigrant, when I first arrived in the United States in 8th Grade, I was a shy student without any confidence. During middle school MUN, I was left alone, I always sat in the back of the committee, speaking only once or twice throughout the whole conference. However, when I tried out for Langley’s nationally ranked Model UN team, still as a shy freshman, the senior officers gave me a chance and invited me to attend VAMUN hosted by the University of Virginia. That was my first out of twenty-six MUN conferences that I attended with Langley MUN.
Other than the irreplaceable friends and family that I’ve made within Langley MUN, Model UN thought me two major lessons: Networking & Advocacy.
Networking is an essential element in MUN and in real life. I first got involved with GCDC by accident, through an online post recruiting volunteers for the 2016 Spring Conference. Fortunately, I served as the Vice Chair of the Security Council Committee as the only high school student staff. Then, I found myself attending UNA-USA’s annual conference and became a member of our local UNA-NCA chapter. Without the mentorship and encouragement of Mr. Ed Elmendorf and without the networking skills that I have learned through MUN, I wouldn’t be who I am today.
Through my networking and my introduction to UNA-NCA, I am now a member of the UNA- NCA Sustainable Development Committee and a staunch advocate for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). From leading and speaking at the first Congressional event on the SDGs broadcasted nationwide last summer to help organize DC’s premier diplomatic forum on the SDGs, I have fully utilized skill-sets which I have picked up from MUN and implementing them in a real-life situation, advocating for the SDGs. Model UN to me isn’t about winning gavels, it’s about making friends, networking, and advocacy.
Finalist for the 2018 Student Secretary-General of the Spring Model UN Conference
12th Grader at Langley High School in McLean, VA
This year, my five-year long Model UN career ended. As the new secretariat of Langley High School’s MUN team was elected, the seniors officially said goodbye one last time. As I sat and reflected on my MUN memories, I asked myself the essential questions: why I do MUN and what does MUN mean to me?
As an immigrant, when I first arrived in the United States in 8th Grade, I was a shy student without any confidence. During middle school MUN, I was left alone, I always sat in the back of the committee, speaking only once or twice throughout the whole conference. However, when I tried out for Langley’s nationally ranked Model UN team, still as a shy freshman, the senior officers gave me a chance and invited me to attend VAMUN hosted by the University of Virginia. That was my first out of twenty-six MUN conferences that I attended with Langley MUN.
Other than the irreplaceable friends and family that I’ve made within Langley MUN, Model UN thought me two major lessons: Networking & Advocacy.
Networking is an essential element in MUN and in real life. I first got involved with GCDC by accident, through an online post recruiting volunteers for the 2016 Spring Conference. Fortunately, I served as the Vice Chair of the Security Council Committee as the only high school student staff. Then, I found myself attending UNA-USA’s annual conference and became a member of our local UNA-NCA chapter. Without the mentorship and encouragement of Mr. Ed Elmendorf and without the networking skills that I have learned through MUN, I wouldn’t be who I am today.
Through my networking and my introduction to UNA-NCA, I am now a member of the UNA- NCA Sustainable Development Committee and a staunch advocate for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). From leading and speaking at the first Congressional event on the SDGs broadcasted nationwide last summer to help organize DC’s premier diplomatic forum on the SDGs, I have fully utilized skill-sets which I have picked up from MUN and implementing them in a real-life situation, advocating for the SDGs. Model UN to me isn’t about winning gavels, it’s about making friends, networking, and advocacy.
Wednesday, May 23, 2018
Why MUN Matters: Skills I Could Never Acquire Anywhere Else
By Lars Greenlee
Finalist for the 2018 Student Secretary-General of the Spring Model UN Conference
8th Grader at Frost Middle School in Fairfax County
Model United Nations represents bringing people together from different backgrounds, and grants the opportunity to discuss and learn about current worldwide issues and to develop life skills. MUN has shaped me into a better person. During committee, I have learned valuable life skills that make me a more prominent individual. Before Model UN, I did not worry about politics or the UN, but since I have attended every conference available to me, I have learned more about the world.
In the past, I’ve often read about current world issues, but I felt like I couldn’t voice my thoughts or that my thoughts would be pertinent to those around me. Model UN has changed my perceptions: I can discuss and learn about global policies that I am unable to obtain anywhere else. I can now watch the news and have an understanding of what is occurring in the world. Because of MUN, I have gained knowledge of countries and how they interact with each other. When a conflict in the world happens, I know where to research, how to learn more about the problem, and think of a possible solution. I also understand the hard work and dedication it takes to be a UN representative.
Model UN is the most important academic and extracurricular activity to me. It has taught me skills I could never acquire anywhere else, and I have learned to hone my reading, writing, and research skills. I have gained better speaking skills and have less fear of standing up in front of people in committee. I know many people who were afraid to speak in front of people, but after a year of MUN, they are speaking during almost every opportunity available. Also in committee, I have gained and developed leadership, critical thinking, and teamwork skills. I have even been tasked to argue a point I may not believe in. Being able to negotiate is another important technique I have developed from Model United Nations. Being able to work with two ideas and put them together into one is very crucial. One of the most important concepts I have learned throughout MUN, though, is to listen to other people. Sometimes listening to others’ ideas is more critical in committee than stating your own opinions. I used to be the person who always talked first, but now I realize that it is beneficial to listen to others and not speak all the time. All of the experiences during Model UN has allowed me to develop into a better person.
Model United Nations is changing my life for the better. I have a preeminent understanding of the world and cultures around me. I have developed some of the most important skills in life. I can discuss topics I enjoy during committee. I have learned to listen and negotiate with people. Model United Nations means to me the ability to learn about the world while also developing necessary social skills.
Finalist for the 2018 Student Secretary-General of the Spring Model UN Conference
8th Grader at Frost Middle School in Fairfax County
Model United Nations represents bringing people together from different backgrounds, and grants the opportunity to discuss and learn about current worldwide issues and to develop life skills. MUN has shaped me into a better person. During committee, I have learned valuable life skills that make me a more prominent individual. Before Model UN, I did not worry about politics or the UN, but since I have attended every conference available to me, I have learned more about the world.
In the past, I’ve often read about current world issues, but I felt like I couldn’t voice my thoughts or that my thoughts would be pertinent to those around me. Model UN has changed my perceptions: I can discuss and learn about global policies that I am unable to obtain anywhere else. I can now watch the news and have an understanding of what is occurring in the world. Because of MUN, I have gained knowledge of countries and how they interact with each other. When a conflict in the world happens, I know where to research, how to learn more about the problem, and think of a possible solution. I also understand the hard work and dedication it takes to be a UN representative.
Model UN is the most important academic and extracurricular activity to me. It has taught me skills I could never acquire anywhere else, and I have learned to hone my reading, writing, and research skills. I have gained better speaking skills and have less fear of standing up in front of people in committee. I know many people who were afraid to speak in front of people, but after a year of MUN, they are speaking during almost every opportunity available. Also in committee, I have gained and developed leadership, critical thinking, and teamwork skills. I have even been tasked to argue a point I may not believe in. Being able to negotiate is another important technique I have developed from Model United Nations. Being able to work with two ideas and put them together into one is very crucial. One of the most important concepts I have learned throughout MUN, though, is to listen to other people. Sometimes listening to others’ ideas is more critical in committee than stating your own opinions. I used to be the person who always talked first, but now I realize that it is beneficial to listen to others and not speak all the time. All of the experiences during Model UN has allowed me to develop into a better person.
Model United Nations is changing my life for the better. I have a preeminent understanding of the world and cultures around me. I have developed some of the most important skills in life. I can discuss topics I enjoy during committee. I have learned to listen and negotiate with people. Model United Nations means to me the ability to learn about the world while also developing necessary social skills.
Wednesday, May 16, 2018
Why MUN Matters: Enlightened to Pressing Issues
By Dana Jammoul
Finalist for the 2018 Student Secretary-General of the Spring Model UN Conference
11th Grader from the Lebanese American University Delegation
Life is all about experiences. Each person with the life he or she was given can choose to add value to this life or to live without a purpose. We must learn to appreciate each opportunity given to us and explore it and learn from it as much as we can.
Signing up to participate in the Model UN was definitely the opportunity that allowed me to explore my capabilities. It was the knife that cut into a box of talents I had in me that I thought I never had. Week after week I would wait for each training session eagerly. The lovely spirit the trainers had added to their solid and fruitful material was enlightening. From the issues they were tackling, I learned about the importance of respecting the rules and procedures of every place I would later walk into, listening to others’ ideas rather than opposing them, as well as public speaking tips that will carry on with me in every speech I make.
The stage that impacted me the most in this whole experience was during the two weeks in which we had to prepare for the final conference. Throughout those weeks, my entire state of mind shifted in a way it hadn’t before. I was enlightened to pressing issues depicting a threat to our world as well as policies and terminologies I hadn’t been exposed to before. Model UN showed me how ignorant I was, and that created an appetite for information as I found joy in researching. I would sometimes get carried away with all the knowledge I was gaining.
The day I was finally done with researching, I flipped into the pages I had printed and smiled at all the information present that had already been imprinted in the back of my brain. The day I walked into the final conference, I walked up with a smile and excitement. My most important goal was to solve the problem we were given in our background guides, and with that ideology was I able to offer the best version of myself.
All in all, Model UN gave me skills I will carry on with me later on in life whether it was in school, college, or my future career. I shall never forget all the amazing memories I went through when I was once an 11th grader participating in an amazing experience known as the Model UN.
Finalist for the 2018 Student Secretary-General of the Spring Model UN Conference
11th Grader from the Lebanese American University Delegation
Signing up to participate in the Model UN was definitely the opportunity that allowed me to explore my capabilities. It was the knife that cut into a box of talents I had in me that I thought I never had. Week after week I would wait for each training session eagerly. The lovely spirit the trainers had added to their solid and fruitful material was enlightening. From the issues they were tackling, I learned about the importance of respecting the rules and procedures of every place I would later walk into, listening to others’ ideas rather than opposing them, as well as public speaking tips that will carry on with me in every speech I make.
The stage that impacted me the most in this whole experience was during the two weeks in which we had to prepare for the final conference. Throughout those weeks, my entire state of mind shifted in a way it hadn’t before. I was enlightened to pressing issues depicting a threat to our world as well as policies and terminologies I hadn’t been exposed to before. Model UN showed me how ignorant I was, and that created an appetite for information as I found joy in researching. I would sometimes get carried away with all the knowledge I was gaining.
The day I was finally done with researching, I flipped into the pages I had printed and smiled at all the information present that had already been imprinted in the back of my brain. The day I walked into the final conference, I walked up with a smile and excitement. My most important goal was to solve the problem we were given in our background guides, and with that ideology was I able to offer the best version of myself.
All in all, Model UN gave me skills I will carry on with me later on in life whether it was in school, college, or my future career. I shall never forget all the amazing memories I went through when I was once an 11th grader participating in an amazing experience known as the Model UN.
Wednesday, May 9, 2018
Why MUN Matters: We Are a Global Family
By Ahmad Bromund
Finalist for the 2018 Student Secretary-General of the Spring Model UN Conference
9th Grader from Muslim Community School/Alim Academy in Maryland
“More than ever before in human history, we share a common destiny. We can master it only if we face it together. And that, my friends, is why we have the United Nations.” Former Secretary-General Kofi Annan made this statement to the United Nations in his millennium message nearly two decades ago, and it still rings true today. In a world where people are judged and divided by religion, culture, race, and socioeconomic status, partaking in Model United Nations (MUN) has taught me the importance of working together as one society for the greater good of mankind.
MUN is an excellent program in which students have the opportunity to explore ideas and solutions for today’s most pressing issues, as well as develop exceptional speaking, debating, and researching skills. MUN also teaches principles of diplomacy, leadership, and critical thinking. In the three MUN conferences I have attended, I have learned that in order to be a strong speaker and debater, I must first be a strong listener. The only way a group of problem-solvers and critical thinkers can be productive is to listen to others’ ideas and have an open mind. Going into a setting such as MUN with this mindset of listening, opposed to just hearing, opens the door to greater possibilities.
In the three years I have been involved with MUN, my understanding of global thinking and sense of community has expanded exponentially. Throughout my MUN journey, I have been particularly inspired by a quote from former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon: “As the young leaders of tomorrow, you have the passion and energy and commitment to make a difference.
What I’d like to really urge you do is to have a global vision. Go beyond your country; go beyond your national boundaries. We are very fortunate to live in a country such as the United States. In this country, we have extreme comforts and privileges, which can cause our working minds to become constricted. Participating in MUN has expanded my mind and vision from a personal scale to a global scale. It’s not all about me and those in my sphere anymore; I must think about my fellow brothers and sisters who are suffering around the world, for we are a global family.
For example, I had never heard of the crisis in the Sahel and Chad Basin until MUN this year, and now I have the chance to study and analyze the causes and solutions for this crisis. I love how MUN brings the world closer together, showing me that I, along with my peers can have a positive impact on this world, because everyone deserves basic human rights.
The MUN body represents striving for our peace and unification. At the conferences, dividing lines become a blur. Differences are put aside and minds start to work together in harmony, to solve a problem, that none of us can solve alone. We work with fellow diplomats of different races, religions, and backgrounds, and we respect them for who they are and what they believe. We learn to put our differences aside and focus on solidarity, so we can all work and strive for peace together. We become many minds put together, working with one another as one powerful force. Then hand in hand, as one entity with one goal, we will all work to bring issues to rest, one by one.
Finalist for the 2018 Student Secretary-General of the Spring Model UN Conference
9th Grader from Muslim Community School/Alim Academy in Maryland
“More than ever before in human history, we share a common destiny. We can master it only if we face it together. And that, my friends, is why we have the United Nations.” Former Secretary-General Kofi Annan made this statement to the United Nations in his millennium message nearly two decades ago, and it still rings true today. In a world where people are judged and divided by religion, culture, race, and socioeconomic status, partaking in Model United Nations (MUN) has taught me the importance of working together as one society for the greater good of mankind.
MUN is an excellent program in which students have the opportunity to explore ideas and solutions for today’s most pressing issues, as well as develop exceptional speaking, debating, and researching skills. MUN also teaches principles of diplomacy, leadership, and critical thinking. In the three MUN conferences I have attended, I have learned that in order to be a strong speaker and debater, I must first be a strong listener. The only way a group of problem-solvers and critical thinkers can be productive is to listen to others’ ideas and have an open mind. Going into a setting such as MUN with this mindset of listening, opposed to just hearing, opens the door to greater possibilities.
In the three years I have been involved with MUN, my understanding of global thinking and sense of community has expanded exponentially. Throughout my MUN journey, I have been particularly inspired by a quote from former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon: “As the young leaders of tomorrow, you have the passion and energy and commitment to make a difference.
What I’d like to really urge you do is to have a global vision. Go beyond your country; go beyond your national boundaries. We are very fortunate to live in a country such as the United States. In this country, we have extreme comforts and privileges, which can cause our working minds to become constricted. Participating in MUN has expanded my mind and vision from a personal scale to a global scale. It’s not all about me and those in my sphere anymore; I must think about my fellow brothers and sisters who are suffering around the world, for we are a global family.
For example, I had never heard of the crisis in the Sahel and Chad Basin until MUN this year, and now I have the chance to study and analyze the causes and solutions for this crisis. I love how MUN brings the world closer together, showing me that I, along with my peers can have a positive impact on this world, because everyone deserves basic human rights.
The MUN body represents striving for our peace and unification. At the conferences, dividing lines become a blur. Differences are put aside and minds start to work together in harmony, to solve a problem, that none of us can solve alone. We work with fellow diplomats of different races, religions, and backgrounds, and we respect them for who they are and what they believe. We learn to put our differences aside and focus on solidarity, so we can all work and strive for peace together. We become many minds put together, working with one another as one powerful force. Then hand in hand, as one entity with one goal, we will all work to bring issues to rest, one by one.
Wednesday, May 2, 2018
Why MUN Matters: Inspires to Make a Difference
By Queen Balina
2018 Student Secretary-General of the Spring Model UN Conference
8th Grader from Cabin John Middle School in Maryland
Model United Nations means many things to me. Yes, it may be a club, an activity, a pastime, but it means so much more as well. The world, as we all know, is not perfect, and it may never be. But Model UN dares me to imagine what a perfect world would look like. We not only learn about the global and local issues being faced today, but also how these issues could affect humanity in the future.
When attending a Model UN conference, I am challenged to reach logical and possible solutions to difficult questions. Participating in Model UN gives us an opportunity to try and fix the world that we will someday be leading, and allows us to use our creativity as an advantage, an untried angle, a new approach to seemingly unsolvable problems.
By solving the problems of today, we are becoming the leaders of tomorrow. One more child, inspired by what they have learned, is one more child, working to change the world as we know it. By getting involved now, more can be accomplished to solve the problems that humanity currently faces.
I am more aware of what goes on around me when in Model UN, and how these problems affect not only me, but the global community as a whole. It is difficult not to be impacted by Model UN, because it is meant to change students and their perception of the world around them. Model UN inspires me to make a difference, even if only in just one single way. Like many other students in Model UN, I learn about how to speak in public, and how to communicate with others.
I also learn about the world as a whole – Model UN has changed me into a global citizen. I am not just concerned about issues, but actively working to solve the problems I see in my community. I have been transformed into a student who is willing to solve problems, willing to compromise, and willing to speak up for my beliefs.
In a way, my life and other students’ lives are changed, because we go from simply seeing the world’s problems to wanting to fix them. Model United Nations is not just a club. Not just an activity. Not just a pastime. To me, it is an experience. It is an inspiration.
Model United Nations makes us strive to change the world, because it is our world. And tomorrow, we will be its leaders.
2018 Student Secretary-General of the Spring Model UN Conference
8th Grader from Cabin John Middle School in Maryland
Model United Nations means many things to me. Yes, it may be a club, an activity, a pastime, but it means so much more as well. The world, as we all know, is not perfect, and it may never be. But Model UN dares me to imagine what a perfect world would look like. We not only learn about the global and local issues being faced today, but also how these issues could affect humanity in the future.
When attending a Model UN conference, I am challenged to reach logical and possible solutions to difficult questions. Participating in Model UN gives us an opportunity to try and fix the world that we will someday be leading, and allows us to use our creativity as an advantage, an untried angle, a new approach to seemingly unsolvable problems.
By solving the problems of today, we are becoming the leaders of tomorrow. One more child, inspired by what they have learned, is one more child, working to change the world as we know it. By getting involved now, more can be accomplished to solve the problems that humanity currently faces.
I am more aware of what goes on around me when in Model UN, and how these problems affect not only me, but the global community as a whole. It is difficult not to be impacted by Model UN, because it is meant to change students and their perception of the world around them. Model UN inspires me to make a difference, even if only in just one single way. Like many other students in Model UN, I learn about how to speak in public, and how to communicate with others.
I also learn about the world as a whole – Model UN has changed me into a global citizen. I am not just concerned about issues, but actively working to solve the problems I see in my community. I have been transformed into a student who is willing to solve problems, willing to compromise, and willing to speak up for my beliefs.
In a way, my life and other students’ lives are changed, because we go from simply seeing the world’s problems to wanting to fix them. Model United Nations is not just a club. Not just an activity. Not just a pastime. To me, it is an experience. It is an inspiration.
Model United Nations makes us strive to change the world, because it is our world. And tomorrow, we will be its leaders.
Thursday, September 21, 2017
Why Model U.N. Matters: Thinking Outside the Box
by Taylor Dumaine
Taylor Dumaine served as a Global Classrooms DC Program Assistant during the summer of 2017. She currently attends the George Washington University, and is entering her junior year in the Elliott School of International Affairs. She's majoring in International Affairs with concentrations in development and Asia.
My high school experience can be summed up pretty well by the fact that I was voted “Most Opinionated” by my peers. While winners of this superlative in years past saw this as a bad thing, and others thought it was a mean superlative, I was in my element.I was proud of my ability to think for myself, research issues, and come to an informed consensus about those issues. A lot of this is thanks to Model UN, and especially my coach and teacher Mr. DiNardo.
Entering high school, I already knew that I loved international affairs and that I wanted to be a part of the team, although I did not join until my sophomore year. Going into it, I wasn’t a soft quiet kid – in fact, I was already pretty well-known for speaking my mind.
Model UN and Mr. DiNardo taught me to put a little more thought into my opinions before opening my mouth so that I could be more persuasive and engage in a better dialogue on issues. I was consistently challenged to represent positions I didn’t agree with, and represent countries that had opposing positions on nearly every issue I cared about. But those challenges expanded my knowledge and understanding on those topics and about international affairs in general.
Mr. DiNardo was also my AP US History and AP Government teacher for my last two years of high school. Having a role model and mentor who treated me and my passion seriously, while also helping me to grow as a thinker, a student, and a person, was an invaluable experience that has had a profound impact on my life.
Model UN encouraged me to think outside the box and speak up, but not before I carefully thought through the reality of certain topics and situations. It teaches kids to think critically not just about international issues, but also solutions and how various organizations and stakeholders are working on the solutions.
While I was a crisis delegate for most of my Model UN career, I was able to tackle current international issues in historical and fictional contexts, challenging me to think as creatively as possible. Working in the ad hoc UN Security Council committee kickstarted my engagement with current events and the role of the international community in those events.
I believe Model UN is one of the best things for young people to get involved in to grow into a better researcher, debater, and thinker.
___________________________
This is part of a series by Global Classrooms DC, an education program under the United Nations Association of the National Capital Area that uses Model United Nations as an activity and tool to teach international issues and geopolitics to students grades 5 – 12. Many of the current and former interns and staff have participated in Model UN, and for many it has been a reason for the field we study and ultimately has a soft place in our hearts. This series was sparked by the recent publication of “What Model U.N. Is, and Why It Matters,” by Spencer Mariotti in The Huffington Post – Teen Edition
Monday, October 3, 2016
Why Model U.N. Matters: Words from a U.S. Diplomat
by Luis F. Mendez, Una Chapman Cox Fellow and U.S. Foreign Service Officer
I admit it. I heart Model U.N. Twenty years ago (yikes), it helped change the trajectory of my life, and it may help change yours too. Allow me to explain.
So how does a troublemaker from the Bronx, New York end up a Model U.N. enthusiast? The answer: Mr. Jackson, a teacher who believed the program would do me some good. He was right. I was immediately intrigued. Laos, Namibia, Yugoslavia - I hadn't the slightest clue where these countries were located, but I was now interested in learning everything I could about them. I spent the rest of my high school and collegial years mastering U.N. decorum, conquering my fear of public speaking, and making lifelong friends.
Laos, Namibia, Yugoslavia – I hadn’t the slightest clue where these countries were located...
 |
| Luis listening to Malian Refugees share their inspiring stories. |
In addition to refining my writing, debating, and problem solving skills, I learned some invaluable life lessons in Model U.N. that I’ve turned to time and time again as an American diplomat. I’d like to share two of those with you today.
1. Don’t be afraid. The issues I’ve dealt with as a diplomat have been complex, nuanced, and sometimes heartbreaking. There are often no easy answers, but what makes this job amazing is trying to solve the unsolvable problems. As Model U.N. delegates you will be asked to tackle difficult issues – migration, terrorism, and climate change. Model U.N. will teach you not to be afraid to dive in, to be bold and ambitious, to ask the tough questions, and take risks. If you happen to fail (and I have many a time), you’ll learn to re-calibrate and try again.
2. All voices matter. Over the past 11 years in the Department of State, I’ve spent hours listening to often-neglected voices around the world. Listening to Nigerian refugees share horrifying tales of persecution by Boko Haram. Listening to Mexican citizens describe the devastating toll of drug trafficking organizations in their communities. Finding common ground and developing consensus begins with listening. Model U.N. will teach you to listen even to those you may not agree with and those marginalized.
At its core, Model U.N. is about making you more empathic towards others, respectful of diverging opinions, and informed global citizens. That’s why Model U.N. matters to me and that’s why it should matter to you!
This is part of a series by Global Classrooms DC, an education program under the United Nations Association of the National Capital Area that uses Model United Nations as an activity and tool to teach international issues and geopolitics to students grades 6 – 12. Many of the current and former interns and staff have participated in Model U.N., and for many it has been a reason for the field we study and ultimately has a soft place in our hearts. Over the next few weeks, we will share with you our memories of Model U.N., and the reasons we believe it matters. This series was sparked by the publication of “What Model U.N. Is, and Why It Matters,” by Spencer Mariotti in The Huffington Post – Teen Edition
Monday, October 26, 2015
"Why Model UN Matters" response by Nicole Bohannon
This is part of a series by Global Classrooms DC, an education program under the United Nations Association of the National Capital Area that uses Model United Nations as an activity and tool to teach international issues and geopolitics to students grades 5 – 12. Many of the current and former interns and staff have participated in Model U.N., and for many it has been a reason for the field we study and ultimately has a soft place in our hearts. Over the next few weeks, we will share with you our memories of Model U.N., and the reasons we believe it matters. This series was sparked by the recent publication of “What Model U.N. Is, and Why It Matters,” by Spencer Mariotti in The Huffington Post – Teen Edition
I wouldn’t be the person I am today without Model U.N.
I came into high school shy and awkward, with some writing potential but no speaking skills. I had some idea that I wanted to be a journalist, but otherwise no ambition. In fact, I only started doing Model U.N. in sophomore year of high school because my friends had joined the club as freshmen to boost their college applications (their words, not mine).
I wouldn’t be the person I am today without Model U.N.But then I was assigned to represent Afghanistan in the Disarmament and International Security Committee in my first conference, and I loved every part of the process. I loved researching about nuclear non-proliferation, especially as a controversial country at the time. I loved working with the students representing North Korea, Iran and Iraq, three states I had been taught to automatically be wary of, but in Model U.N. had become my allies. I loved artfully dodging questions from the United States, working hard to stay in line with my country’s beliefs, and writing working papers to perfectly outline policies.
I ended up winning the Best Delegate award and the gavel at my first conference ever, but I couldn’t care less. I only cared about learning how speak up more, even when the introverted side of me had no desire to do so. I was invested in writing faster and clearer position papers, not only to set an example for my club members but also prepare more for the conferences in the future. Above all, I loved being able to solve any problem that came my way, whether I was Egypt solving the water crisis in the Middle East or Colin Powell trying to prevent nuclear war in Iran in 2003.
That passion has taken me through college as I continued doing Model U.N. and as I’ve worked in DC at a variety of internships and jobs. I can definitively say that my life would have been very different if I hadn’t discovered Model U.N.I loved artfully dodging questions from the United States, working hard to stay in line with my country’s beliefs, and writing working papers to perfectly outline policies.
Author's Bio: Nicole Bohannon is a senior at the Elliott School of International Affairs at the George Washington University, studying European and Latin American affairs, and Program Coordinator for Global Classrooms DC at UNA - NCA. Born and raised in Washington, DC, she has always had a strong interest in international politics. She has worked and interned in non-profits, think tanks, and consulting groups in high school and college. Before working at Global Classrooms DC, she interned for the Atlantic Council in their Transatlantic Relations Program.
Monday, October 19, 2015
"Why Model UN Matters" response by David Berris
This is part of a series by Global Classrooms DC, an education program under the United Nations Association of the National Capital Area that uses Model United Nations as an activity and tool to teach international issues and geopolitics to students grades 5 – 12. Many of the current and former interns and staff have participated in Model U.N., and for many it has been a reason for the field we study and ultimately has a soft place in our hearts. Over the next few weeks, we will share with you our memories of Model U.N., and the reasons we believe it matters. This series was sparked by the recent publication of “What Model U.N. Is, and Why It Matters,” by Spencer Mariotti in The Huffington Post – Teen Edition
Last week, I read an article after a group of my fellow Model U.N. nerds shared it on Facebook to show their true love for what we spend many of our weekends doing. The article is entitled “What Model U.N. Is, and Why It Matters,” and was written by a high school student from Branford, Connecticut who is the President and Founder of his school’s Model U.N. club. Published in The Huffington Post – Teen Edition, the article embodies the impact that Model U.N. has had on the lives of so many students of all ages that continue their pursuit of being global students while debating key issues that so many countries face today.
While reading this article, I began to think back to how I got started with Model U.N. As a high school freshman, I still did not understand the value of extra-curricular activities. I wanted to go home everyday and continue the video game that I had stopped playing the night before. My Mom came home from work one day, and gave me the choice of joining Student Council or Model U.N. There was no way I was joining Student Council, so I unwillingly stayed after school the next Tuesday for the first Model U.N. meeting of the year. I signed up for our first conference at another local high school where I represented Israel in the Social, Humanitarian and Cultural Committee of the General Assembly. I sat there in silence the first day of the conference, not wanting to be there and stubborn to not succumb to the wishes of my mother. The next day, I mustered up enough courage to get up and speak. I fell in love, and have done Model U.N. ever since.
People ask me all the time why I love Model U.N., and I can no longer give them a concrete answer that summarizes every detailed aspect as to why I love it. There are too many reasons. It has become such a huge part of my life to the point where it is second nature to me. When a massive news story breaks or a debate in class sparks controversy, I immediately think about how this can tie into a Model U.N. committee. Yes, the obsession is that real. Now I would never say that all those participate in Model U.N. are as in love with it as I am, but I can say with 100% certainty that all MUN delegates will agree with me that Model U.N. matters.
It’s more than just learning about how the world works. You acquire critical skills that help students become an independent and critical individual. From public speaking, negotiating, writing, and networking, a Model U.N delegate no longer is just a student, but a global student that cares about the world, its issues, and the ways in which they can be solved. As the article says, “Model U.N. is so much more than simply playing ‘make-believe.’”
As the Head Delegate of The George Washington University Model U.N. team and a Global Classrooms DC Curriculum Development Specialist for the United Nations Association of the National Capital Area, I can truly say that my passion for Model U.N. has given me great opportunities that I would not normally have as just a typical college student.
Author's Bio: David Berris, is a senior at The George Washington University majoring in International Affairs and a Global Classrooms DC Curriculum Development Specialist at the United Nations Association of the National Capital Area, and has been heavily involved in the Model United Nations team since his freshmen year. Since his sophomore year, he been the Head Delegate of GW's nationally recognized Model U.N. team. He is in charge of teaching freshmen delegates how Model U.N. works on the collegiate level, and has also worked with middle school and high school students from around the United States and the world to teach them Model U.N. He is very dedicated to youth empowerment and helping students understand their place in the world as global citizens that have a say in their future.
While reading this article, I began to think back to how I got started with Model U.N. As a high school freshman, I still did not understand the value of extra-curricular activities. I wanted to go home everyday and continue the video game that I had stopped playing the night before. My Mom came home from work one day, and gave me the choice of joining Student Council or Model U.N. There was no way I was joining Student Council, so I unwillingly stayed after school the next Tuesday for the first Model U.N. meeting of the year. I signed up for our first conference at another local high school where I represented Israel in the Social, Humanitarian and Cultural Committee of the General Assembly. I sat there in silence the first day of the conference, not wanting to be there and stubborn to not succumb to the wishes of my mother. The next day, I mustered up enough courage to get up and speak. I fell in love, and have done Model U.N. ever since.
"I sat there in silence the first day of the conference, not wanting to be there and stubborn to not succumb to the wishes of my mother."
People ask me all the time why I love Model U.N., and I can no longer give them a concrete answer that summarizes every detailed aspect as to why I love it. There are too many reasons. It has become such a huge part of my life to the point where it is second nature to me. When a massive news story breaks or a debate in class sparks controversy, I immediately think about how this can tie into a Model U.N. committee. Yes, the obsession is that real. Now I would never say that all those participate in Model U.N. are as in love with it as I am, but I can say with 100% certainty that all MUN delegates will agree with me that Model U.N. matters.
As the article says, “Model U.N. is so much more than simply playing ‘make-believe.’”
It’s more than just learning about how the world works. You acquire critical skills that help students become an independent and critical individual. From public speaking, negotiating, writing, and networking, a Model U.N delegate no longer is just a student, but a global student that cares about the world, its issues, and the ways in which they can be solved. As the article says, “Model U.N. is so much more than simply playing ‘make-believe.’”
Author's Bio: David Berris, is a senior at The George Washington University majoring in International Affairs and a Global Classrooms DC Curriculum Development Specialist at the United Nations Association of the National Capital Area, and has been heavily involved in the Model United Nations team since his freshmen year. Since his sophomore year, he been the Head Delegate of GW's nationally recognized Model U.N. team. He is in charge of teaching freshmen delegates how Model U.N. works on the collegiate level, and has also worked with middle school and high school students from around the United States and the world to teach them Model U.N. He is very dedicated to youth empowerment and helping students understand their place in the world as global citizens that have a say in their future.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)