Dressed in fashionable business attire, a host of students from high schools all across the northeastern United States engaged in heated debates at the annual University of Connecticut Model United Nations conference November 8-10, 2019. These student delegates, which included DMAE’s formidable Model UN team, discussed real and trending global issues in their respective committees, such as improving HIV/AIDS education worldwide. 

“The high point for me was watching people who had never been on an overnight trip grow out of their comfort zone,” advisor Mindy Rochman said.

The delegates, consisting of both new and returning members, refined speaking skills as they articulated arguments and allowed compromises in ways that would benefit their “countries.” They also learned how to cooperate with their committees and other delegates. Though it takes confidence and daring, these skills come with time and freshmen often admit to having butterflies in their stomachs both in the debates and when meeting new people. 

“At first, it was intimidating because everyone was dressed formally and I was nervous to talk,” freshman Woozoo Han reflected. 

The entire DMAE Model UN team worked hard to be effective and compassionate leaders and delegates. Senior Brian Lee was even named Best Delegate for his committee. In the end, they had a very fruitful experience.