Pace University New York City student Nigina Khaitova '18 representing Slovenia at the 2015 National Model United Nations conference in Washington DC.

Pace University New York City student Nigina Khaitova ’18 representing Slovenia in a simulation of UNHCR at the 2015 National Model United Nations conference in Washington DC.

I am a transfer student and participated in a model United Nations conference with my previous institution. However, taking model UN at Pace University New York City this semester was much more intense and productive for me. I found Pace`s Model UN class curriculum very useful, specific and practical. I was able to be very confident at the 2015 National Model UN conference in Washington DC, being a leader of our working group – “the one with a laptop”. I first faced some difficulties with people who didn`t like being led by somebody, but later I was able diplomatically to make those who seemed like “enemies” be my best friends.

A number of factors in Model UN class which helped me to be confident in representing my assigned country, the Republic of Slovenia. Using guidance from the Pace Model UN Handbook I knew what kinds of details to look for in researching my position paper for Slovenia. Readings for each class were very useful, and to my surprise, they contained the information I wasn`t aware of even after submitting the outline of my paper. The unique opportunity to talk to people who work for the UN Missions of some former Yugoslav countries, i.e. Croatia and Serbia, aided my understanding of the country I was about to represent greatly.

I believe learning the UN rules of procedure are very useful for decisionmaking in other organizations. As I am a member of the Student Government Association, I already use this knowledge, such as in making points and motions. Learning how to practice diplomacy, negotiation, public speaking, as well as representation of other’s opinions are all useful lessons. I hope to work at the UN Headquarters in the future and I strongly believe that Model UN is a great exercise for preparing to the real UN life. I hope to have a chance to take this amazing class again!

– Nigina Khaitova ’18, Political Science major, Peace and Justice Studies minor.