****NOTE: Applications for Pace’s funding of participation in this conference are now closed — Ed. ****
Pace University’s New York City Model UN program is planning to help cover the costs of between eight and 15 students (depending on the number of eligible applicants and costs of flights) who wish to attend the prestigious University of Peace Model United Nations Conference (UPMUNC) held at the UN’s own university in Costa Rica from 24 February to 2 March 2013. The theme of the conference will be “The path to peace in an increasingly connected global society.”
Unlike with most Model UN conferences, UPMUNC participants will include not just undergraduates but also graduate students and junior members of the diplomatic community in Costa Rica’s capital of San Jose. Pending final approval by appropriate administrators, Pace MUN students will travel together with the MUN faculty advisor, however, they will participate in their own delegations, not necessarily alongside other Pace students.
The UPMUNC conference itself will take place 28 February to 2 March 2013, but the participants from Pace will, pending approval from the administration, also get a special advance orientation course, 24-28 February organized by the UN University of Peace Human Rights Center. Participants will receive official certificates of participation in the advance course and the conference itself. Students will stay in home-stays in Ciudad Colon, with families that are vetted and registered by the UN University of Peace’s Housing Department.
Pending final approval from the administration, Pace University will cover much of the cost of participation, including participation fees, flights and internal transportation, housing and most meals. However, participants accepted to go on the trip will need to make a contribution of around $400-500 (exact amount to be determined), plus any passport, visa, medical or vaccination costs you need to be able to travel and some of your own food and entertainment costs.
To take advantage of this opportunity, you will need to go through a two-step application process:
- You will need to apply directly online to UPMUNC through their registration website, as soon as possible, by 19 December at the latest, (the faculty advisor and head delegates can help you with this). This is will determine whether you are accepted into the conference by the University for Peace.
- You will need to complete an application to the Pace NYC MUN program (email to mbolton@pace.edu), by 19 December by midnight. This will determine whether you are among the 8-15 whose participation will be subsidized by Pace.
To download the full details and application form, click here. Note that there are eligibility restrictions on this opportunity, so please read through the document carefully. Also note that no late applications will be accepted.