Questions
1)  What is Model UN Club?
2)  What types of activities does Model UN engage in?
3)  What do members do at a Model UN Conference?
4)  What social events are normally included at a Model UN Conference?
5)  What conferences has the Model UN Club attended?
6)  How will I benefit from participating in Model UN?
7)  How does the Model UN Club pay for its activities?
 
Answers
1)  Q What is Model UN Club?
A
Model UN is a club dedicated to promoting global citizenship, cross-cultural understanding and greater awareness of current international issues.
2)  Q What types of activities does Model UN engage in?
A
Model UN participates in a variety of activities both on and off campus. The group holds monthly meetings at which members conduct official business using "Robert's Rules of Order," discuss and debate current global issues, and prepare for upcoming conferences. Every other year the group attends a Model United Nations conference in which the club represents an assigned nation in a mock UN simulation. Other club events include hosting events for International Week, presenting to local groups such as the Rotary International, and fundraising.
3)  Q What do members do at a Model UN Conference?
A
Students will represent an assigned country. They must research background on that country's government, history, geography, economy, and current policy positions. Participants are assigned to various UN committees specializing in issues such as disarmament, trade, health, etc. Before the conference, members will read background briefs on one or two major issues that their committee will focus on. They will do additional research to determine their country's positions on these issues. In preparation for the conference, students work in pairs to write short position papers outlining their nation's stance. While at the conference, delegatess spend much of their time in committee meetings in which they draft UN Resolutions and debate issues. The conference culminates in a mock session of the full General Assembly during which delegates vote on the various resolutions drafted in the committees.
4)  Q What social events are normally included at a Model UN Conference?
A
A conference provides a unique opportunity for delegates to meet other high school students with similar interests from all over the United States and the world. Students will socialize during breaks in their committee meetings, at meals, and at a dance during the last night of the conference.
5)  Q What conferences has the Model UN Club attended?
A
In March 2008 the charter members of the BHS Model UN Club attended the National High School Model UN Conference at the United Nations complex in New York City. On April 15-18, 2010 we are planning to attend the Cornell Model United Nations Conference CMUNC in Ithaca, New York.
6)  Q How will I benefit from participating in Model UN?
A
Participating in Model UN gives students a chance to hone their skills in leadership, public speaking, researching, writing, and argumentation. Delegates receive feedback on their position papers from the college students who staff the conferences. Participating in a conference is a fun way to gain in-depth knowledge about issues of global importance. Finally, you will be able to bring the skills and knowledge you acquire back to our local community. Club members are encouraged to share their experiences with the school and community.
7)  Q How does the Model UN Club pay for its activities?
A
The goal of the BHS Model UN Club is to allow any student to participate in a conference regardless of their financial position. The group covers the cost of participation through a combination of fundraising and grants. In the past groups like the Binghamton Alumni Foundation and the Binghamton Chapter of the Rotary International have generously supported our efforts. We will continue to look for additional grant opportunities to help our members access this rich learning opportunity.