Pleasant Valley High School students participated from March 26 to 27 on the University of Illinois Model United Nations conference, stepping into the roles of leaders, debating global issues and representing a diverse array of countries.
At these events, students stimulate real United Nations committees, working together to address complex international issues such as disarmament, security council debates, and social, cultural and humanitarian conflicts. For many participants, the experience offers a unique opportunity to learn about the world in a way that goes beyond what a classroom may offer.
For some students, this experience reshapes how they view global conflicts and decision making. “Before participating in Model UN, I had always thought that complex global issues could be easily solved by simple and clear solutions; however, after attending multiple MUN-related events, I learned that every government acts in the best interests of its country based on history and complex geopolitical position.” Pleasant Valley senior Justin Lim said.
Unlike a traditional classroom setting, Model UN requires students to research their assigned country and apply that knowledge in real-time debates and negotiations. This approach provides students a hands-on learning experience that helps them develop a deeper understanding of international issues.
According to many participants, the conference adds depth that school coursework often lacks. “In our classrooms, we briefly learn about other states’ actions without further explanation about their culture, history, and their position on the international stage. This conference goes beyond the boundaries of plain facts and brings in complex factors that provoke each country to act on certain issues.” Lim said.
Students gain valuable skills in communication, collaboration and problem solving. Delegates must work together, often with opposition views, to draft resolutions, create amendments and find compromises.
For many of these participating students, Model UN is more than just an academic activity; it is an opportunity to expand their view of the world and grow as an individual.
Others emphasize the personal growth and confidence gained through the process. Pleasant Valley senior Asmita Bag shares her experience on it: “MUN conferences have really developed my public speaking and communication skills… it makes it impossible not to learn how to work with others… it teaches us to think on our feet and process lots of information with a lot more clarity.”
As students return from the conference, they not only bring home awards and pride, but also a broader understanding of the world and their role within it.
