Debating World Issues, Discovering Confidence

Model UN is an educational simulation in which students role-play as country delegates, researching and debating real-world issues in a United Nations–style setting. Topics for this year’s committees ranged from emergency healthcare in war zones to strategies for addressing transnational organized crime. For many participants, Model UN can be a powerful entry point into self-discovery. With such a wide range of committees on offer, MUN gives students the opportunity to discover issues they are passionate about, build confidence and develop skills that extend far beyond the classroom. 

“There are so many different issues to engage with,” shared Felicia Z, a Grade 9 student and the BSSMUN Undersecretary General of Operations. “You can find an issue you care about and have your voice heard.” Felicia noted that participating in MUN’s law-adjacent committees, such as the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, aligned closely with her interest in pursuing political science or law at the post-secondary level. 

According to Felicia and Alma Z ’29 (another BSS student and conference organizer), the research phase is a highlight of the MUN experience. Developing position papers at other conferences helped them gain deeper knowledge about world issues while sharpening their critical thinking, negotiation and communication skills. “I’m really interested in medical science and research,” said Alma. “MUN is a wonderful chance to explore your interests, and be exposed to many new topics.”

In addition to their previous experiences as delegates, Felicia and Alma had the opportunity to take on leadership roles in organizing the BSS conference. According to Alma, who co-chaired the World Health Organization committee, this experience helped hone her research and writing skills, while teaching her how to collaborate with delegates of varying experience. “I was very shy when I first started at BSS, but over time I’ve become more open and confident, and MUN has been a part of that,” Alma shared. For Felicia, her role as USG of Operations provided valuable hands-on experience in coordination, organization and effective leadership.

We’re grateful to the dedicated students who made this conference possible, and to alumna Tiffany LEE ’11, a federal policy analyst, for inspiring delegates as our opening speaker. Plans are already underway to host BSS Model UN again next year.