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Top 10 Reasons to Get Involved with Model UN

23 August 2012
Young students debating (Kyo Morishima Photography)

Negotiate like a pro: Luxembourg’s delegates debate their position at the 2011 Global Classrooms International Model UN Conference at UN Headquarters in New York.

This article is part of the eJournal USA issue “Global Generation: The Model UN Experience.”

Ever wonder what it’s like to be a diplomat? Thousands of students find out each year by participating in Model UN conferences. Here are the top 10 reasons you should join them:

1. See New Places

Every year more than 400 Model UN conferences take place all over the world. Whether you are looking to stay close to home or explore new territories, Model UN takes you places!

2. Meet New People

With more than 400,000 students from some 52 countries participating each year, Model UN brings people together. In between delivering speeches and negotiating international treaties, you may just find yourself making new friends!

3. Stand Up and Be Heard

If the thought of getting up in front of a large group to speak sends you into a panic, you need Model UN. Practice public speaking before an audience of supportive peers. Shake off your fears and shine!

4. Flex Your (Writing) Muscles

What do you want to be when you grow up? No matter what job you hope to have, chances are you will need strong writing skills to be successful. Flex your persuasive writing muscles by drafting position papers and speeches!

5. Learn How to Deal

Obviously most of us at some time or another have to deal with people who don’t agree with us. From settling international border disputes to clashes over commas, Model UN will teach you how to negotiate like a pro!

6. Learn By Doing

There is no better way to learn than by doing. And where else can you act as an ambassador representing your country on the international stage? Let your inner actor emerge!

7. Think Outside the Box

How would you address the economic crisis, ensure food security or protect human rights? Model UN lets you air your ideas for making the world a better place. Be innovative!

8. Put a Dent in the Universe

Ever wonder why some world problems just don’t seem to get solved? Model UN gives you the chance to hone your problem-solving skills.Take a crack at making the world a better place!

9. Take a Walk in Someone Else’s Shoes

Learning to see multiple sides of an issue is an invaluable skill. In Model UN, you have to argue the positions and perspectives of another country. Open your mind to new possibilities!

10. Have fun!

The main reason students keep coming back to Model UN year after year is ... it’s fun! See for yourself what the excitement is all about: Join your local Model UN chapter or start your own!

Model UN participants waving from UN headquarters (UNA-USA)

Make new friends! With more than 400,000 participants every year, you are bound to see some new faces in Model UN.