R-MWC delegation to the National Model United Nations, representing the Republic of Greece, spring 2006

On the bus with Lynchburg College

One of the highlights is the Embassy Briefing, given to us this year by Gregory Delavekouras, Second Secretary to the Permanent Mission of Greece to the United Nations, and Yannis Mallikourtis, Second Secretary and UN Security Council specialist

“This gave me the opportunity to become somebody else for the week and realize that I represented the country of Greece and its people.” – R-MWC delegate on the Commission on Science and Technology for Development

There were 4,000 students at the conference, representing 192 countries and 38 non-governmental organizations.

The delegates themselves hailed from many countries, including Egypt, China, Turkey, and Afghanistan. The 20- person Randolph-Macon Woman’s College delegation, one of the most international at the conference, included students from 14 different countries.

Most of the work at the conference is done in formal committee session and informal caucusing - in the hallways and after hours, when friendships are also made.

“I woke up every morning with the drive to do something… It was amazingly mind blowing. It makes you look at your pampered life and wonder, ‘What can I do to make a difference?’” – R-MWC delegate on the World Conference on Disaster Reduction

On Thursday, each committee had a special speaker, including academics, NGO leaders, and senior UN officials.

Professor Benedict Kingsbury, NYU School of Law, after speaking to the International Law Commission

A major highlight is being at the UN and sitting in the Great Hall of the General Assembly for opening and closing ceremonies.

“Being at that institution, sitting at the places of real diplomats, talking behind the same microphones and actual placards, it all made us feel like we were “really” in their shoes.” -- R-MWC delegate on the General Assembly Plenary

The Marriott was fantastic, except for that pesky elevator problem!

Marriott’s fitness center – a real plus!

And, of course, delegates have a chance to explore the city, with trips to Central Park, the museums, shops, restaurants, and clubs.

Delegation dinner at THE Bosnian restaurant

“Don’t be afraid to walk around New York. If a bunch of people want to do something you don’t want to do, spend the time doing something you’ll be excited to tell your friends and family later.” -- R-MWC delegate on the UN Security Council

“The Model United Nations conference was one of the greatest educational experiences of my life.” – R-MWC delegate on the Commission on Science and Technology for Development