In March, I had the honor of attending the National High School Model United Nations (NHSMUN) conference with BISC South Loop’s Model UN team in Midtown Manhattan, New York City. I was particularly looking forward to seeing our secondary students in action as they participated in a truly international event alongside delegations from high schools around the world.
As a former Model U.N. student myself, I was also eager to watch this next generation of young leaders take on urgent global challenges while practicing diplomacy, negotiation, and critical thinking with their peers. Our students did not disappoint.
Having spent a little over a year with the BISC-SL community, I can already vouch for how special our students are—but being able to witness this firsthand was truly a gift. RepresentingMali, Serbia, and Costa Rica, our students arrived at their committees not only well prepared, but also ready to lead. I saw them confidently command their committee rooms, build alliances with like-minded countries, and think deeply about complex global issues that challenge even the most seasoned world leaders and diplomats.
I hope you will allow me to brag a little more about our Model United Nations cohort. Not only did our students acquit themselves admirably as delegates, but they also set an outstanding example as representatives of both our school and our wider community. Throughout the conference—both in committee sessions and beyond—our students demonstrated kindness, professionalism, and exemplary conduct.
As part of our trip to New York City, we were fortunate to enjoy a private tour of the United Nations Headquarters, a rare and meaningful privilege. Once again, our students impressed us with their curiosity and engagement. During our meeting with United States Ambassador to the United Nations, Mike Waltz, they asked thoughtful, insightful, and complex questions that reflected a deep interest in global affairs. It was immensely gratifying to see how well our students understand the unique opportunities they are afforded as BISC-SL students and how seriously they take those privileges.
At the end of our trip, as we boarded the bus to the airport, I asked students to reflect on their personal experiences with Model UN—what they have gained from the program and how it has enriched their overall student experience, particularly as they look ahead to life after graduation. While everyone was understandably tired after a whirlwind weekend of late-night committee sessions and early morning starts, their enthusiasm was undiminished.
Take a look at what our students have to say about their Model UN experience.
“During NHSMUN, I had this idea in my mind that I could do and say whatever I wanted, because the chances were, of three thousand delegates, no one was going to remember little mistakes I made since there are so many other things for everyone to worry about. And that was true. I had more freedom.
That was one of the great things about this conference. In a sea of people, I was able to take more chances and risks, because, and I think of this often now – no one’s going to remember the small stuff. This realization has completely changed how I live.” - Amy L., Year 10
“Model United Nations has aided my development in research, public speaking, and human relations. With each topic I research, I become more informed about international policy and global interdependence, and every conference I attend provides opportunities to develop my negotiation and diplomacy abilities. I also find myself forming meaningful connections with my fellow delegates and genuinely enjoy the engaging and rigorous conference atmosphere. In tandem, it has helped me to become a more informed global citizen and to dissect current events more critically. I am now more confident when researching how international politics affects me and the groups I care most about, which has led to enlightening discussions about the state of the world.” - Alexandra C., Year 11
“Over the past two years in Model UN, and most recently at the NHSMUN conference in NYC, I have gained a much clearer understanding of what MUN truly requires. It goes beyond just simple participation or building a college resume. It demands consistency, preparation, dedication, and the confidence to speak in public when needed. After personally meeting with the US and Serbian Ambassadors to the UN and winning two awards, the biggest and most important lesson I can share is simple: in order to succeed in Model UN, you must fight for it; it’s that simple.
Do not wait for the opportune moment to stand out -- create it. Speak up, lead unmoderated caucuses, and actively participate in diplomacy.
Finally, I want to extend my gratitude to the teaching staff and Model UN presidents in our school who have made all this possible. Thank you for everything.” - Gleb S., Year 12
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