Model UN was first held at the high school about 20 years ago, in 2002 to 2003. A student asked social studies teacher Jessica Friday, if they would be able to restart the club, and she said yes. Model UN is a club where students usually act as delegates to the United Nations and simulate UN committees. The students perform an ambassador role while debating different topics. These topics can range from gender equality, climate action, global health and much more.
Model UN is also a club that is great for developing leadership roles, and Friday, takes much pride in this.
“I love the fact that students get to learn more information about current events. Things we don’t get to learn about in class,” said Friday.
Friday has been teaching at the high school since August 2000. She teaches history classes and is very involved in school activities, including being the Model UN and debate advisor. Students are not only drawn to the club but also her enthusiasm for it.
“She’s very enthusiastic about Model UN and it makes me just as happy,” said junior Zoe Sauvagnargues.
Through this club, students learn better speaking skills and social skills overall.
Over the recent years, especially due the pandemic, Model UN experiences have changed. Years ago the would go to Lehigh to speak out to an audience, they got to speak with the ambassador of Egypt, and even got to go to the United Nations.
“Yea, I would have liked to go out, but honestly, it’s still pretty fun and I still enjoy the club very much,” said junior Winnie Chen.
Overall, Model UN is a very student driven club and offers an opportunity to grow leadership skills and interpersonal skills. It also prepared students for college and life outside of school as well.
