GESMUN: Our first CAS experience

by Asha Celis (IB-1) & Saimeera Dhawan (IB-1)

Model United Nations exists to allow students intrigued by international relations, dynamic discussions and lively debates to participate in what is, in a nutshell, a simulation of the UN. What MUN is, how it operates, and the steps needed to collaborate, agree, and at most times, compromise with other people are all things we have learned over the course of three days, during the GESMUN event.

Spearheaded by IB students of the 12th grade, the GESMUN was made possible thanks to their leadership, patience, and tolerance towards each other and the team they have grown. Throughout the three-day-long event, we were originally assigned registration and note passing jobs which meant we had to intercept, moderate, and pass notes between delegates. These tasks eventually branched out into numerous different duties as we were rather short-staffed. As such, we took on roles as cafeteria crew, helping give out food to hungry delegates and faculty after their long and demanding committee sessions. We were also posted at the “Süße Post”, selling bracelets and necklaces, candies, and delivering sweet anonymous notes, with all raised funds going into a children’s charity! Although these tasks sound rather menial, they demanded a lot of effort and was a humbling learning experience: serving others instead of being served, stepping down from the spotlight, and being aware of where we stand as crew members, knowing our small roles are necessary to keep the event going.

In the opening ceremony, we had the opportunity to hear a speech from the German Ambassador, Dr. Andreas Michael Pfaffernoscke, along with an impromptu Q&A session. As a host (Asha), it was quite difficult adapting to the sudden changes in the program and script, however the sense of accomplishment you get after successfully hosting despite all the unforeseen challenges makes up for all the anxiety and work.

Over the next two days we continued with our tasks while creating memorable bonds and friendships within the crew. We all learned to communicate, check up on each other, and make sure everyone’s hard work was acknowledged. Knowing we had the support of everyone else in the team was incredibly motivating and kept us going.

The delegates worked with their committees to wrap up their work on the final day. The day ended with a special awards ceremony. It was amazing to watch fellow crew members receive certificates and be acknowledged for their hard work. We believe that for a predominantly student-lead event, GESM’s very first MUN event will be memorable for all!