This year marked my third year in Model United Nations. However, my experience has been anything but typical. As one of the two presidents of my school’s MUN club, I have taken on a leadership role that goes beyond just participating in conferences; it involves guiding newer members, organizing meetings, and helping
others find their voice in debate. Despite this responsibility, I have only attended one conference; the 2026 conference in Washington, which turned out to be unforgettable for all the right reasons.
From the moment we arrived in Washington, the atmosphere was intense; it was freezing cold, snow covered the streets, and everything felt fast paced and chaotic. Walking into committee, I could already tell that this experience would challenge me in ways I had not fully expected; delegates were quick to speak, questions came rapidly, and there was little time to hesitate. Answering questions under pressure became one of the most difficult parts of the conference; every response had to be clear, informed, and immediate. At times, it felt overwhelming; however, it also pushed me to think faster and speak with more confidence.
What made the experience truly stand out, though, was not just the debate or the setting; it was the group of people I was with. Being surrounded by such a dedicated and supportive group of MUN members changed everything; even in stressful moments, there was always encouragement, laughter, and a sense that we were all in it together. Whether we were preparing for committee, rushing through the cold between sessions, or reflecting on how things went, the energy of the group made the entire experience more meaningful.
As a leader in the club, this conference also gave me a new perspective; I was not only representing my country, but also setting an example for others in my school. It showed me that leadership is not just about being the most experienced person in the room; it is about staying composed under pressure, supporting your team, and making the most out of every situation, even when things feel hectic.
Looking back, my 2026 MUN experience in Washington was challenging, chaotic, and incredibly rewarding; it pushed me outside of my comfort zone while also reminding me why I value this activity so much. Even though I have only attended one conference, it was enough to show me the impact MUN can have; not just as a competition, but as a community.
