May 15th, 2025

Victoria Pérez Vidal, English Teacher

The work of bringing a Model United Nations (MUN) club back to life delivers meaningful encounters that inspire participants while strengthening community ties. As I began to reestablish our school’s MUN club I realized the necessity of dedication and an authentic enthusiasm for diplomacy and international relations (*). My approach was straightforward: Welcome students with authentic human connection while showing excitement about the club’s offerings and extend an invitation for them to discuss these opportunities.

The first step I took to engage students consisted of visiting every classroom in the school. My approach involved seeing every classroom as an opportunity to create a friendly environment for the club’s activities. I delivered brief dynamic speeches to show students that MUN provides significant experiences that teach them world debate skills along with public speaking abilities and teamwork and critical thinking competencies. I shared my personal growth journey through MUN while acknowledging the opportunities it provided and how it expanded my worldview. I aimed to show potential members that the club was welcoming and enjoyable while eliminating any doubts or false beliefs they may have held.

While touring classrooms I paid attention to students’ questions and fears so I could adapt my presentation accordingly. I emphasized how the club served as a learning space for all members without considering their previous experience and background. I presented students with opportunities to develop leadership skills and travel while forming new relationships. Students began to change their attitudes towards the club after I transformed abstract connections into real, tangible experiences. The students developed a growing interest which led them to ask about the opportunities MUN provided.

The response was inspiring. Slowly but surely, students began signing up, and the club started to grow. The energy was contagious, and soon we had over 20 dedicated members. The club’s renewed enthusiasm was evident in our meetings, where students debated passionately and shared innovative ideas. The sense of community and purpose was stronger than ever, and I knew that our efforts had paid off.

In the end, transforming our MUN club was about more than just increasing membership ―it was about creating an environment where students felt inspired to participate, learn, and grow. Seeing the club buzz with energy again was a reminder that a little enthusiasm and genuine connection can spark a powerful change. It’s a journey that proves every voice matters, and when given the chance, students can achieve incredible things.

(*) Victoria Pérez Vidal took over Crandon MUN Club earlier this year