The Model United Nations (Model U.N.) team from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth recently returned from the National Model United Nations (NMUN) conference in Washington, D.C., with a sense of accomplishment and pride.
This year marked a historic milestone for the club as it became the first group in its history to meet with a foreign ambassador at an embassy. Their visit to the Embassy of the Republic of Sierra Leone not only enriched their understanding of international diplomacy but also propelled them to achieve an honourable mention award, placing them in the top 20% of participating schools at the conference. The journey began when the Model U.N. team was selected to represent Sierra Leone at the conference.
Christopher Castro-Villaseñor, a political science major and co-president of the Model U.N., took the initiative to reach out to Sierra Leone’s ambassador, Sidique Abou-Bakarr Wai. His efforts paid off, leading to a briefing at the embassy that would prove invaluable for the team. “This was the first time our club had ever met at an embassy, and it was a remarkable experience,” Castro-Villaseñor reflected. “We had a briefing where we interacted with the ambassadors and counsellors, including ministers of education, defence, economics, and culture. They provided us with a comprehensive overview of Sierra Leone’s foreign policy and their positions on various international issues.” The insights gained during this meeting were crucial for the delegates as they prepared for the conference. Understanding the nuances of Sierra Leone’s foreign policy allowed the team to more accurately represent the country’s interests during their discussions and negotiations.
Castro-Villaseñor emphasized the importance of this hands-on experience: “Learning about Sierra Leone’s stances on ongoing geopolitical situations helped us during the conference. We felt fortunate to have this opportunity.” Jacqueline O’Hare, the club’s vice president and also a political science major, echoed Castro-Villaseñor’s sentiments. She noted that the embassy briefing not only enhanced their knowledge but also fostered a sense of enthusiasm among the delegates. “The insights we received from the embassy allowed us to engage more deeply with the material,” O’Hare said. “It was especially rewarding to see new delegates come out of their shells and develop a passion for diplomacy as a result of this experience.” Both Castro-Villaseñor and O’Hare observed a noticeable shift in the delegates’ energy and commitment following the briefing. “I think the meeting elevated our competitive spirit, which ultimately contributed to us winning the honourable mention award,” Castro-Villaseñor stated. The award was a testament to their hard work and preparation, reflecting the dedication the team brought to the conference. The NMUN conference serves as a vital platform for students to explore and engage with international relations.
UMass Dartmouth’s Model U.N. club uses this annual trip to introduce new members and first-year students to the world of diplomacy and global partnerships. Daniel Flores, co-president of Model U.N. and a political science major, emphasized the importance of nurturing an interest in international relations among new members. “In today’s interconnected world, fostering an appreciation for global partnerships is essential,” he said. Although Flores was unable to attend this year’s conference, he was thrilled to hear about the experiences of his fellow members. “When the students returned, they were buzzing with excitement about the conference and how engaging it was,” he shared. “It was heartwarming to see their enthusiasm, especially after the embassy briefing, which motivated them to achieve such a significant award.” The impact of participating in Model U.N. extends beyond just awards; it shapes students’ professional aspirations and career paths. Many members find inspiration through their experiences within the organization. For instance, Flores interned at the Embassy of El Salvador over the summer, while Castro-Villaseñor hopes to pursue a similar path in the future. O’Hare highlighted the tangible influence of their work in Model U.N., noting that resolutions passed at conferences have been sent to the United Nations for consideration. “It reinforces the idea that we have a real impact on global diplomacy,” she said. “That’s something I cherish about being part of Model U.N., and it motivates me to continue on this career path.”
The growth of UMass Dartmouth’s Model U.N. club is evident in their recent developments, including the addition of a new executive board position. Flores expressed his admiration for the dedication of the club’s members and leadership. “The results from this trip showcase the excitement and commitment towards what Model U.N. is building,” he said. “It gives me a lot of hope for the future of the club, especially as I prepare to graduate after four years of being a member.” As UMass Dartmouth’s Model U.N. team reflects on their successful trip and the lessons learned from their embassy visit, they are reminded of the importance of diplomacy, collaboration, and the pursuit of knowledge in an increasingly complex world. The experience not only solidified their passion for international relations but also equipped them with the skills and insights necessary for their future endeavours in global diplomacy. With a bright future ahead, the Model U.N. team is poised to continue making strides in the world of international affairs.
