Model UN: More than a Class

BY ANNA MARKCROW ’25

Burr and Burton is proud to help students find their passions, and that is exactly what the Honors Model United Nations (Model UN) class does.

Model UN is a class where students can explore interests in diplomacy and international relations. Traditionally, Model UN is offered as an extracurricular club or group, but here at BBA, we are fortunate enough to have it offered as a class.

In the fall, Model UN class took a trip to East Brunswick, New Jersey to attend the Princeton Model United Nations Conference (PMUNC). PMUNC is one of the most exciting weekends of the year for delegates in Honors Model UN.

Henry Sexter ’24 said, “To prepare for the conference, I did everything [Model UN teacher Thomas Von Allmen] recommended we do. First I completed my position paper and created a research binder for my topic. I also looked for countries in my committee that have similar policies, so I could work in conjunction with them.”

Being a delegate in Model UN is a great way to learn new information and challenge yourself. At the conference, many delegates were very pleased with how the committee session has played out, and are very excited for the upcoming sessions. Others had challenges that they were working to find solutions to.

Anna Markcrow ’25 is a member of the 2022-23 Burr and Burton Model UN delegation. She especially enjoys social studies classes and is looking forward to participating in the full schedule of Model UN conferences next year. An accomplished equestrian, Markcrow also competes nationally in Hunter/Jumper competitions throughout the year.

Adelaide Redden ’25 told me about some of the challenges she faced in the Social, Cultural, and Humanitarian Committee (SOCHUM): “In this past committee session, the mental challenges were definitely a hard part for me. It can be pretty up and down so you just need to try to stay positive and upbeat. It won’t go your way a lot of the time, and sometimes you need to be able to adjust accordingly while keeping a positive attitude.”

Many delegates said the biggest challenge for them is public speaking. Although it can be nerve wracking, it is undoubtedly one of the most important parts. Oakley Robbins ’24 said, “[Public speaking] is definitely a challenge for me and lots of people. Sometimes I feel like I have no idea what to say and am freaking out while I am raising my placard, but I think once you get up and say it you will be okay. The more you do it, the more comfortable you become and that is key in your confidence build.”

Seniors Elijah Blesofsky and Kaitlynn Cherry shared some of the opportunities that Model UN has provided for them. Blesofsky said, “I initially signed up for Model UN

Model UN students attend several conferences each year, among them the Princeton Model UN Conference and the Yale Model UN Conference.

[because] I like history and I like debating, but as I got farther into junior year, I started to realize what I’d like to major in [political science and film and communications with a minor in international relations] and I really think this class helped me figure out what I want to do with my life.”

Cherry said, “Model UN has given me the opportunity to explore what it would be like to be a diplomat, which is a track I would like to pursue in college and in the future. It will give you an opportunity to try something new out that you might really like.”

Blesofsky reflected: “Model UN is the best class. The opportunities and family-like dynamic are what make it so special. It truly changed my life.”