21 students from H.I.S., grades 10 through 12, attended the annual Model United Nations conference in Arnhem.
With many going for the first time, there was a lot of excitement in the group as we headed towards the Netherlands. The conference was held in the beautiful school of Lorentz Lyceum, which was the new venue for the event. On the first day the conference commenced with an opening ceremony that included various speeches. One of which was held by a member of the European Parliament. Having the opportunity of listening to one of Europe’s top politicians was an extremely fruitful experience, as it inspired and motivated us all for our conferences.
Throughout the three days that we spent there, many friends were made in the respective assemblies and many lessons were learned. Students who may have felt uncomfortable speaking in front of large groups of people, found themselves having detailed speeches in front of other delegates. Other students who were returning to the conference may have been able to strengthen their public speaking skills and improve their confidence. Some students may, however, have been preoccupied with writing the funniest gossip for the gossip box, or sending love notes to the cutest delegate in their committee. Nevertheless, this year’s LMUNA was a great experience for all of us.
On the Monday, before our train ride back to Heidelberg, we visited the World War II museum in Arnhem. It contained an exhibit of the Battle of Arnhem, which took place in the later stages of the war. The exhibit showed military uniforms that were worn during the battle, as well as other clothing items of victims of the battle. The most memorable part of the exhibit was the “World War II Experience,” which tried to replicate the social conditions of the war. We were able to walk through different rooms that contained mannequins dressed as soldiers in various military stages, while ominous sounds were playing. Collectively, it created a believable environment and it left a large imprint on the students.
With the fantastic teacher supervision from Ms. D and Ms. M, we had a wonderful time dressing in formal clothes and “playing adults” for a few days. Many participants have said to happily return to MUN conferences in the upcoming year.
Elsa, Grade 11
