If there were to be one word to describe the Yeshiva University National Model United Nations competition experience, which I along with ten other Yeshivah of Flatbush students participated in, would be: invigorating. Annually, Yeshiva University hosts a "mock" United Nations at a hotel in Stamford, Connecticut. Schools from all over the world receive roles as delegates representing different countries and students must research assigned topics over a few months and help find resolutions that would be in their countries' best interest as well as others. The ability to practice real life skills by standing up and sharing ideas, constantly adjusting them so that you can incorporate others is not something every high school student can do. The Yeshivah of Flatbush Model UN team consisted of eleven natural leaders who were able to greatly influence each of their own perspective committee rooms. It not only allows for students to gain real life experience but also interact with YU and Stern students understanding the potential growth a person could have from attending such a college.
As high school students, we are aways encouraged to be leaders; yet it is impossible to define leadership in a simple sentence. During the three day competition, students first hand experience what leadership is. John Maxwell once said, “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.” Students representing countries, in different committees similar to those in the United Nations have the responsibility of working with other students to solve world crises, and passing resolutions. Delegates are also tested on their feet when posed with a crisis in the middle of a 20 hour day that they could not prepare for from before hand.
We also had the honor of hearing Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks speak. He made a joke while addressing over 400 students from four different countries, “If there are so many leaders, who will the followers be?” As the next generation of leaders in society, especially representing the Jewish people, it is bestowed upon us to use the same tactics used in the Model UN competitions when dealing with real people and real problems.
The Yeshivah of Flatbush Model UN team was able to bring home awards thanks to our amazing captains, Joy Feinberg and Michael Bildirichi, and dedicated faculty advisor, Mrs. Rina Zerykier. Receiving Best Delegate awards, veterans, Charles Chakkalo and Victor Zeitoune and Honorable Mentions, veteran Joy Feinberg and rookie Rashelle Gersh.
Albert Einstein said, “The only source of knowledge is experience.” Can’t wait until next year! ~Rashelle Gersh, Junior
