Model U.N. Conference Empowers Diplomatic Students

Eleven Upper School students and members of the Model U.N. club stepped into the shoes of global delegates and engaged in dialogue surrounding worldwide issues as they traveled to Cornell University to compete in the 2022 Model United Nation Conference (CMUNC). 

 

Upper School Spanish teacher and Model U.N. Advisor Julie Sanza and Upper School Spanish teacher Armando Perez joined the students as they embarked on a four-day conference simulating the procedures, discussions, and debate structure of the United Nations. As mock delegates, the students spent the sessions debating international and global concerns and collaborating with other delegates to form a comprehensive resolution to appease the committees.

 

“The students fully emerged themselves into the topics at hand and chose issues that interest them,” commented Ms. Sanza. “The conference gives students the opportunity to expand their global awareness and understanding of what crises are happening around the world. Having this type of discourse is beneficial.”

 

In preparation for the conference, students spent their weekly meeting time choosing what country they would represent and the issue at hand, whether it be social, economic, environmental, or political. The students engaged in deep-dive research into the issue and the position of their country.

 

The conference began with Opening Ceremonies, where the students were introduced to the other schools and the daily schedule. Each day began with a morning welcome session before the debates began. Working as individual delegates on the committees, students engaged in hours of debate where they introduced their topic and defended their respective country’s belief. Each delegate works together with fellow delegates on creating proposals and finding resolutions, which must be defended in a committee and voted on.

 

During their free time, the group toured the Ithaca, N.Y., campus as well as local spots in the area. On the final night, the group attended a delegate dance with other school members. Students also engaged in networking opportunities with fellow students.

 

Ms. Sanza noted the topics at hand can be heavy and vastly different from students’ personal views. Still, she said students do well at keeping an open mind when having discussions on policies with which they do not agree. She added that through the conference, students have become more comfortable with their public speaking and communication skills.

 

Hamden Hall’s Model U.N. club has more than 20 current members. As the club advisor for the last five years, Ms. Sanza said she hopes to see the club continue to grow as students become more interested in international relations and global affairs. In terms of future conferences, Ms. Sanza commented she hopes the club can resume its schedule of two conferences a year, one in the fall and one in the spring.