Article written and provided by Jessica N., a High School Senior
Let’s face it: Starting your Model United Nations (MUN) career is hard. Like, SUPER hard. There are several different types of conferences, committees, and schedules that all require a different approach and know-how, and the idea of speaking in front of a group of fifty other students is quite daunting at first (even in a virtual setting). Fortunately, there are tons of resources for getting acclimated and learning the many rules of GA and Crisis nowadays, but almost no one talks about the more realistic side of attending a Conference. Sure, writing a successful position paper is important, but where do I get food? What should I do in between sessions? What’s the best way to create group chats? How do I make the most of my MUN experience?
This article is a compilation of real advice from seniors who have quite a number of committees under their belt to baby delegates and those just getting started on their MUN journey! It certainly is not a replacement for other Model UN resources, but hopefully it can give some down-to-earth guidance that other columns don’t cover and help you kick off the 2021-2022 MUN season!
1. ALWAYS bring band-aids!
It doesn’t matter how comfortable you think your professional footwear is: when you are walking around a school or between conference halls all day, blisters and sore feet are inevitable. Always bring both a pair of comfortable, solid-colored sneakers and band-aids so that your feet have time to heal. I would also recommend purchasing a roll of moleskin, which is a type of sticky soft fabric which can be put on the back of flats or dress shoes. Pro-tip: you can also give extra bandaids out to other bloc members and those in need!
2. Tag along with others
If it’s one of your first conferences and you’re still finding your delegate style, notice delegates that you admire, and try to hang around them, observe them, and perhaps join their bloc if it isn’t out of line with your policy. Remember their best features and strategies, and try to emulate them at your next conference. This doesn’t mean that you should try to completely copy that delegate – simply strive to practice the parts of their Model UN persona that you admire, and as you meet and see more phenomenal delegates, you’ll see your own Model UN identity build and grow out of those delegates (and you’ll often find that your own unique twist gets in there as well!) Also, PLEASE ask these delegates for advice. Trust me, they love it when junior delegates connect with them. The best delegate brings out the best in other delegates!
3. Preparing speeches isn’t an exact science
In moderated caucuses, you might only have 30 seconds to prepare for your speech on a generally new topic. You won’t have time to write out a fully drafted and edited speech, so the best strategy is to scribble a quick outline to help you stay on track. Jotting down your three main points makes it easy to get into the details without losing your place so you can focus on delivering a clear and confident speech. Remember: there isn’t a correct way to do this! Experiment with different outline writing strategies, and find what works best for you. When in doubt, try and have a hook, a main point, and a call to action!
4. Handwrite your notes
Writing down your notes on a physical piece of paper makes it easier to capture the main arguments of a delegate’s speech because you have to think what to write down, and if you’re on zoom it makes it easier to talk because you don’t have to flip between screens. It’s also easier to write a note to another delegate if you already have your notebook out – all you have to do is rip off a corner of the page you’re writing on! Make sure to carry a notebook with you, as well as index cards you can use to communicate with other delegates!
5. Backgrounds & costumes are essential in the virtual setting
In a room full of prepared and educated delegates, it can be hard to stand out through opening speeches and debate. An easy and fun way to distinguish yourself can be through props, zoom customization, or even full outfits based on your country or character. Find a flag, press the little “backgrounds” button on zoom, and upload! Just a small gesture can go a long way. If you REALLY want to go the extra mile, though, don’t be afraid to don an outrageous costume to really play up your character! It’s fun, draws attention, and adds a little spice to a long and professional day. Have fun with your MUN committee experience!
6. Bring snacks and have a meal plan
Usually, assemblies will have a predetermined break where delegates are able to grab a snack or a meal. However, especially at one day conferences, you may only have 20 minutes or so to eat what you can! Have snacks/water with you at all times and ask ahead of time when the chair is going to give breaks so that you can prepare (or time DoorDash accordingly) to be ready to go when your break period ends. This is especially true for virtual conferences where you are in a different time zone and need to eat a full meal when only a snack period is given! Oh, and also, don’t be afraid to get up and stretch during your breaks! Sitting down for 6 hours gets really tiring, especially if you’re on zoom, so walk around and stay hydrated.
7. Staying up late isn’t worth it
Don’t stay up late working the night before! If you’re like me, you procrastinate, and might leave drafting your opening speech to the last minute – but don’t sacrifice sleep for prep! You might not even use it, and you’ll do better with a good night’s rest and doing improv than being tired and not being able to make an energetic speech. Instead, go to bed, and wake up bright and early to continue whatever you were working on.
8. Ask for feedback from your chair and/or crisis staff
Feedback from the dais is one of the most important growth opportunities you will have at any conference. Listen carefully, and make sure they point out the positive things you’ve done as well as how you could improve. As you go to more conferences, you may notice a theme in what chairs like vs. want to see improve in you as a delegate – then you know what to focus on building up when you’re preparing or participating in a conference. Always be open to feedback along your Model UN journey!
