A Global Experience at Case Western
On November 11 and 12, the Mentor Model United Nations (MHSMUN) competed at our biannual Cleveland Council on World Affairs (CCWA) conference hosted at Case Western Reserve University (CWRU). At this conference, 28 MHS students represented countries from the United States of America to Gianni Infantino, president of the Fédération Internationale de Football Association, and committees ranging from the Security Council to the Commission on the Status of Women.
At this conference, as well as at all other MUN conferences, our delegates participated in well-structured and productive debates aimed at solving real-world problems. We collaborate with students from public and private schools across Ohio, forming relationships with each one.
Key Aspects of Model United Nations
One of the best parts about Model United Nations, besides the relationships, is the focus on collaboration, public speaking, work ethic, and effective communication. All of these skills represent what it takes to be a well-rounded citizen and member of the community. Furthermore, being able to view issues through a lens different from your own allows you to see multiple sides of an issue, which directly relates to global problems.
Cardinal Nation spoke to some of the participants in this year’s CCWA Fall conference, and here’s what they had to say.
Cardinal Nation: What aspect of MUN do you enjoy the most?
Ayesha Faruki: I enjoy the opportunity to learn about different global perspectives and increase my own knowledge on international issues. It’s really fun to be able to meet with new people who share your common interests.
Cardinal Nation: What is the biggest life skill that MUN has helped you develop, and why is this skill important?
Ayesha Faruki: The biggest life skills would probably be the ability to think quickly and speak impromptu. When I started off with MUN, I was more timid about the concept of diving into a room full of strangers with complex topics, but now I really enjoy it!
CardinalNation: What initially drew you to Model United Nations?
Brayden Schlacht: The desire to join Model UN started when I was scrolling on my Instagram feed and saw a post under the “MentorMUN” page, seeing my friends and acquaintances speaking in front of a group of people. Now, I did do Model UN in 7th grade, but I was not good at it. But seeing my classmates so confidently speak politically about topics sparked something in me to join back. As I researched and attended Mr. Couch’s meetings, I knew this was something I would excel in. It wasn’t until I won the gavel award at CCWA a couple of years ago that I knew this is what I shine at. Now, going into my 3rd year, I speak about topics and solve crises while interacting with people from other schools. I love the process of writing papers, public speaking, and arguing with other delegates about what is best for our country, and I urge others to join with us!
Awards
At CCWA, we had multiple delegates awarded. Freshman Ella Kosher received a Superior Delegation award representing Canada, Senior Ayesha Faruki received an Excellent Delegation award representing the United States, and Senior Sonja Marich received the Gavel award representing France.
Looking Ahead
The Model UN team’s next conference is at St. Edward High School for their annual Cleveland International Model United Nations (CLEIMUN) in February, and lastly, the CCWA Spring conference, also held at CWRU.
