The much-anticipated MMUN trip took place over our Presidents’ Week Break. Students arrive in New York on Tuesday, took in the city that evening and the following day, and on Wednesday took part in the Opening Ceremonies. After Committee work on Thursday, students were able to visit the United Nations building in New York and work at the desks of the actual General Assembly Hall. Once Committee work had reached consensus on Friday, students took part in the Closing Ceremonies, and our own Cristina Martinez Aldaco, an 8th-year and second-generation MFS/EBM student, was voted by her Committee group to present their resolution at the ceremony! A wonderful time was had by all, whether meeting fellow delegates or exploring the city and taking in an evening gelato. Congrats to our amazing delegates on all their hard work and a successful trip!

Please read about Cristina's incredible experience, in her own words:

At Montessori Model United Nation (MMUN) there are multiple events that happen. Every year there is a Closing Ceremony. The Upper Elementary and Middle School Committees vote on 3 delegations to represent Topic 1 and Topic 2. For example, in my committee ECOFIN (Economic and Financial Committee), we were told by our bureaus to write down 3 countries that would be a good representative for our committee for the Closing Ceremony. We did that process for both Topic 1 and 2.

At the end of day 2, we got the results on who was going to speak at the Closing Ceremony. For Topic 1, The State of Qatar, Republic of Ethiopia, and the Republic of Angola were chosen by the committee. I was so, so happy to be chosen to speak in front of everyone who participated in MMUN! After it got announced, I had to stay for a couple of minutes. The bureau told me what I needed to write down so I could recite it and practice it. 

When it was almost time to speak, I’m not going to lie, I was so nervous that I almost told my committee partner that I was going to back out. Luckily, my partner reassured me I was going to do great. When I went on stage with my fellow delegates I just stood patiently, clapping when one delegate finished after the other. Then it was my turn, I said my speech, people clapped, and when I went back to my seat I felt extremely accomplished. Being a part of the Closing Ceremony was super cool. And now I don’t really fear public speaking anymore, so yay!

To any parents who are considering if their child does MMUN next year, do it! It is such a great experience. You’ll be able to meet so many people from all over the world, as well as help solve global issues and make a difference.

Sincerely,

Cristina, EBM 8th Year

The Republic of Angola