Model UN on Common App: From “Nerdy UN Kid” to “Global Citizen”
Alright, folks, let’s talk about Model UN and how to make it sing on your Common App. You’ve spent countless hours debating international crises, probably argued more about the finer points of the UN Charter than your parents have about whose turn it is to do the dishes, and now you’re ready to showcase your expertise to the world (or at least, to college admissions officers).
But here’s the thing: simply listing “Model UN” on your Common App is about as exciting as watching paint dry (unless, of course, you’re painting a mural of a UN General Assembly session, then it’s slightly more interesting).
So, how do you transform your Model UN experience from a mere bullet point into a captivating narrative that screams “I’m a future world leader!”?
The Secret Weapon: Your “Why?”
Forget about rattling off your accomplishments (we’ll get to those later). The key lies in answering the why behind your involvement. Why did you choose Model UN? What ignited your passion for global issues? What have you learned about yourself and the world through your experiences?
Think back to that moment when you first dove into the world of Model UN. Was it the thrill of arguing for a controversial resolution, the camaraderie of collaborating with fellow delegates, or the realization that you could actually make a difference in the world, even if it was just in a simulated setting?
Don’t Just List Accomplishments, Tell a Story
Let’s be honest, college admissions officers have seen it all: “President of Model UN Club,” “Outstanding Delegate,” “Won the Best Position Paper Award.” These are all great achievements, but they’re also generic.
Instead of simply listing your accolades, weave them into a story that highlights your growth, skills, and impact.
Example:
Generic: “President of Model UN Club, organized and led the delegation for three consecutive conferences.”
Storytelling: “As President of the Model UN Club, I spearheaded the organization of our delegation for three annual conferences, leading a team of 20 students to engage in thought-provoking debates on critical global issues like climate change and refugee crises. Through this experience, I honed my leadership skills, navigating complex negotiations and facilitating consensus-building among diverse perspectives. The responsibility of guiding the team, ensuring everyone had a voice, and fostering a collaborative environment fueled my passion for international cooperation.”
See the difference? The storytelling approach goes beyond simply listing accomplishments and showcases the impact of your involvement.
Highlighting the Key Skills
Now, let’s break down those essential skills that admissions officers are looking for:
1. Global Awareness and Understanding:
Model UN isn’t just about role-playing; it’s about delving into complex global issues.
Example: “My research on the Syrian refugee crisis for the Security Council committee deepened my understanding of the complexities of international humanitarian law and the role of the UN in addressing such conflicts. I gained a firsthand perspective on the challenges facing refugees and the importance of diplomacy in finding solutions.”
2. Negotiation and Cultural Understanding:
Remember those intense debates you had with delegates representing countries with drastically different perspectives? Those are valuable experiences!
Example: “During the “Climate Change” committee session, I found myself negotiating with a delegate from a country heavily reliant on fossil fuels. This experience taught me the importance of diplomacy and compromise in finding common ground amidst differing viewpoints, highlighting the need for global collaboration to tackle complex challenges.”
3. Leadership and Communication:
Model UN is a platform for leadership, whether it’s heading a committee, organizing events, or effectively presenting your arguments.
Example: “As Secretary-General of the conference, I was responsible for organizing and managing all aspects of the event, from delegate registration to logistics. This experience honed my leadership skills, allowing me to effectively delegate tasks, manage time effectively, and communicate clearly with a diverse group of participants.”
4. Public Speaking and Communication:
From crafting powerful speeches to engaging in constructive debates, Model UN hones your public speaking and communication skills.
Example: “My passion for international law led me to research and present a position paper on the International Criminal Court’s role in prosecuting war crimes. The experience of presenting my findings to a committee of delegates, fielding questions, and defending my arguments bolstered my public speaking skills and helped me develop a confident and articulate voice.”
Beyond the Basics: The “Model UN” Mindset
Now, here’s a bonus tip: don’t just list “Model UN” as a simple activity. Highlight the underlying skills and values that make you stand out.
Think about things like:
- Critical Thinking: You’re constantly analyzing complex issues from multiple perspectives.
- Problem Solving: You’re working collaboratively to find solutions to real-world problems.
- Adaptability: You’re navigating different political and cultural contexts.
- Research and Analysis: You’re delving into research to gather information and support your arguments.
Remember, colleges are looking for students who are more than just good at memorizing facts. They want students who can think critically, solve problems, and make a difference in the world. Model UN is an excellent way to demonstrate these qualities.
The Final Word (and a Word of Caution)
So, there you have it – the secret sauce to crafting a compelling Model UN description for your Common App. Remember, it’s not just about listing your accomplishments; it’s about weaving a narrative that showcases your passion, skills, and growth.
But, before you go conquering the Common App, a word of caution. Don’t go overboard with the grandiosity. You’re not trying to become the next Secretary-General of the UN (at least, not yet). Be genuine, be authentic, and let your passion for global issues shine through.
Need further help or research resources about how to describe Model UN on Common App? Connect with us at the JobLoving community for personalized guidance and expert advice!