On Jan 24 and 25, students competed against area schools in a Model UN. Students began preparing in September, and last week they were finally able to showcase all their hard work through debate with other students. 

“We have to be a real-life delegate from our country, so we have to understand where they stand on issues,” senior Cason Cox said. “That’s the hardest part of the entire thing. Understanding the world from a completely different perspective.”  

Model UN participants were expected to research real-world issues and come up with solutions. While at the competition, their resolutions were presented to their committees, debated, and judged. 

“Even though I was in Model UN for only two years I would like to think I learned a lot from it,” senior Heaven Cantu said. “I have never been a strong speaker and I get so anxious when I have to speak in front of other people, but I think with the help of Model UN I was able to grow into a better speaker and have more confidence in my presentation skills. I think everyone should do Model UN at least once in their high school career since it gives you the opportunity to look into problems that are not only happening here but all around the world and how you could possibly solve them. I will forever be grateful for the experience I have gained because of Model UN.” 

To be considered for awards, students were judged on the articulation of their ideas and their willingness to participate in the two-day competition.  Sophomore Maggie Quine, Juniors, Hannah Grimes, Laryna Romero, and Seleste Romero, and Seniors Sofia Gomez, Melanie Sosa, Heaven Cantu, Janette Chavez, Ryan Beddingfield, Kendall Travino, Canon Gorman, and Madison Donovan received awards for their performance at Model UN.

“I’m glad that I was able to place in Model UN for my final year,” senior Madison Donovan said. “I’ve placed all four of my years, and ending my Model UN career with a bangs makes all of the hard work worth it.”