My MUN Experience Part 2

If you’ve been following my story, you know that my theatre background gave me the confidence boost I needed, but the real push into MUN came from an incredible person named Anvita. Let’s dive into how this all unfolded!

So, after getting into theatre and improv, I thought I had my hands full. But then sophomore year rolled around, and I started hearing more buzz about this thing called MUN. My swim friend had been talking about it since freshman year, but I just brushed it off. I was trying to get used to high school, make friends, and not drown in homework. New clubs weren’t exactly on my radar.

Then I met Anvita. She was the president of the MUN club, and let me tell you, her energy was off the charts. I met her at a school event, and she started talking about MUN with such passion that it was impossible not to get intrigued. Here’s a pic of her—she’s the one on the left, just radiating confidence.

Anvita explained how MUN wasn’t just about debates and speeches. It was about understanding global issues, developing leadership skills, and connecting with people from all over. She made it sound so exciting and meaningful. Honestly, her enthusiasm was contagious. She had been the president since my sophomore year and stayed on through my junior year, basically reviving the club and making it awesome.

So, I decided to give it a shot. I showed up at my first MUN meeting, a mix of curiosity and nerves. The club was small but full of passionate people. The discussions were intense and engaging. It felt like a place where I could really grow, both intellectually and personally. Anvita was a fantastic mentor, guiding me through the ropes of MUN and pushing me to take on more responsibilities.

The first few meetings were a bit overwhelming. There were so many terms and procedures to learn. Parliamentary procedures, drafting resolutions, understanding the nuances of international relations—it was a lot to take in. But Anvita and the other club members were patient and supportive. They helped me get up to speed, and soon enough, I was participating actively in the discussions.

Then came my first big MUN conference. Anvita had convinced me to represent a country and debate with students from other schools. I was super nervous, but also excited. It felt like stepping onto a stage, just like in theater, but with a whole new twist. I remembered all the skills I’d learned from theater—projecting my voice, staying calm under pressure, thinking on my feet—and they all came in handy.

The conference was incredible. I debated, I listened, I learned, and even got some applause. It was such a rush, and I felt this amazing sense of accomplishment. Anvita had been right—MUN was a fantastic way to build confidence and gain new perspectives. The experience of standing in front of an audience and defending my stance on global issues was both exhilarating and empowering. I felt like I was part of something much bigger than myself, contributing to discussions that could potentially shape the world.

One of the most memorable moments from that first conference was when we were debating a resolution on climate change. The discussions were heated, with delegates from different countries presenting their viewpoints passionately. I had to think quickly, formulate my arguments on the spot, and respond to counterpoints effectively. It was like an intense improv session, but with real-world implications. By the end of it, I felt like I had grown not just as a speaker, but as a thinker and a leader.

By junior year, I was more involved than ever. I started helping organize meetings and mentoring new members, just like Anvita had done for me. It felt great to give back and help others find their footing in MUN. The skills I’d gained from theater and improv were invaluable here too, making me a better speaker and leader. I even got to lead a few training sessions, teaching new members about public speaking and debate strategies. Seeing their progress and enthusiasm reminded me of my own journey and made me even more passionate about MUN.

Reflecting on this journey, I realize how much MUN has shaped me. It’s not just about the debates and conferences; it’s about the skills, confidence, and friendships I’ve built along the way. Anvita’s passion and guidance were crucial in getting me started, and I’m so grateful for her influence. She taught me the importance of stepping out of my comfort zone, embracing challenges, and believing in myself. These lessons have not only made me a better MUN delegate but also a more confident and resilient person.

Joining MUN has also opened my eyes to global issues in a way I never expected. I’ve learned about different cultures, political systems, and international conflicts. I’ve developed a deeper understanding of the complexities of global diplomacy and the importance of cooperation and compromise. These insights have broadened my perspective and made me more empathetic and informed about the world around me.

So, to anyone out there considering trying something new—go for it. You never know where it might lead or how it might change your life. Thanks for following along with my journey.