The room is filled with debates as delegates share their ideas. Around them, students talk about history and global issues.
The Model United Nations (MUN) club brings students together to learn about global issues and practice skills like public speaking and negotiation.
Co-presidents, juniors JJ Basch and Sophia Simon lead the club with years of experience. Basch got involved as a freshman after hearing about MUN and deciding to give it a try. He quickly found himself enjoying the experience.
“It was something I was interested in, and I enjoyed my first conference, so I just kept going,” Basch said.
Similarly, Simon joined the club at the end of her freshman year when her friends encouraged her to step in as treasurer. “They knew I was interested in political science, so I joined. I’ve loved it ever since and have worked hard with everyone to make it even better,” Simon said.
Now, as co-presidents, the two work together to organize events, teach new members, and lead the club through competitions.
One recent event was Firebird MUN at Pacific Ridge High School.
Basch represented Charlemagne, King of the Franks, in War of the Bucket, while Simon represented Gaxius Duilius in the Punic Wars.
“It went well. Four of us won awards. [Simon] won Best Research, Ellie Chin won Honorable Mention, and Kaitlyn English and JJ Basch both won Best Delegate,” Basch said
Both Basch and Simon agree that the best part of MUN is the conferences. “It’s fun to meet people from different schools and work with them on committees,” Simon said.
For Basch, the mix of public speaking and thinking on the spot is the most exciting. “It’s not a debate. You’re not arguing with someone. It’s about proving your point and working together,” Basch said.
MUN also offers many creative opportunities, which both Basch and Simon have embraced. Basch recalls a 1920s mobster committee where he played John Dillinger. “I overthrew the Mayor of Chicago using secret underground tunnels and sank the city under Lake Michigan,” Basch said
Outside of MUN, Simon is rehearsing for her role as Charlotte in Poway High’s Cinderella and volunteering with the National Charity League. Basch, the vice president of the drama program, plays Jean-Michel in the same production and has performed in every school show since his freshman year. He is also a member of the Die Lieder Singers.
Basch said being a part of
MUN helps build up public speaking skills, critical thinking skills, and global awareness, especially for students interested in getting into humanities or political science fields.