CC students at the National Model UN 2008

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2010-04-30T07:44:00.001-07:00

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After

2009-01-19T17:57:00.000-08:00

Well its well after we have completed our initial mission—properly represent Columbia College and our country Italy properly—and yet there is still more to tell. Of course, you all have seen the mini footage of our panel (in which we told our fellow students in person of our experience) and where we allowed them to ask us some questions.

To those that came out to the event—THANKS, and to those that did not—your loss. The footage is ok but you would have gotten more out of it if you attended the panel event in-person.
Anyway, our next mission, people, is to try to inform our peers of the wonderful experience being a part of the Model UN is; and as you can guess, we have been doing just that through the blog, the panel event, and we will be doing just that through our booth at the student activities

MODEL UN PRESENTATION

2008-12-30T19:25:00.000-08:00

A short video of the presentation the Model UN Delegation made to the CC community on December 4th. Later in the week I will post some photos, and of course the last of the photos of Chicago, plus some words to those who would like to be part of the Model UN in 2009.

Leadership in the Windy City!

2008-12-15T06:24:00.000-08:00

Columbia College offered me the chance of a life time and I took it with open arms. She allowed me to represent her in Chicago, Illinois at the Model UN conference. I took this opportunity and embraced it. I felt a lot off pressure being from one of the only woman colleges and the only college from South Carolina at the conference. I always joke about the 4 C's.... Needless to say the 4C's saved me at this conference! There were hundreds of students from all across the US, many from prestigious and Ivy League schools. At first I was a little intimidated, nervous, and lost for words. However I know those feelings did not reflect my personality, Columbia College or me as a Columbia College woman who has been taught/drilled the 4C's of leadership. So i took my courage, commitment, confidence and competence and applied it to every caucus and session. I realized that I had been given an opportunity of a life time and that there was no need to take advantage of it but rather embrace this experience! This conference allowed me to become more aware of national politics. Not only has this trip allowed me to practice the 4C's of leadership but has also strengthened my 4C's of leadership! I am now even more empowered about being a woman of the 4C's of leadership here at Columbia College. It's not often that I am at a lost for words but this experience is one that can't be explained but only experienced.

Kara Simmons

The last blog!

2008-12-13T19:29:00.000-08:00

Well after writing a reflection essay for Dr. Jones ive realized I actually did learn a few things that I didnt in my poli sci classes. There are a few things I want to do more research that I stumbled upon at the Model UN as well, which truthfully I didnt think would happen, for some odd reason. I really did enjoy the experience and I was lucky to find out about countries that I didnt know existed and interact with other students who love poltics just as much as I do. If I had another year at school I would probably try to go to Chicago again. I think the most awesome aspect out of all of this is that the poli sci department did not just pick people who are majoring in public affairs, political science, or history, but they decided to let all students apply. I say this because I was able to work with Melanie, my partner, who is a biology major and I was able to learn from her and how she looked at the issues differently than how I would. It was great working with someone who thought out of the box. It was awesome, thats all what I have to say.

Looking Back....

2008-12-12T10:49:00.001-08:00

With all the excitement of sharing my Model UN stories with friends and turning in my final assignments for professors, I almost forgot to post my experience on this blog! So here goes:

Awesome, Awesome, Awesome! I had such a wonderful experience and I'm glad I had the opportunity to participate in this year's conference (Thank you, Dr. Jones!). Being able to discuss tough issues like humanitarian aid and economic policies with students from all over the world was great. Not only did I get to practice my negotiation skills, I also learned the true meaning of diplomacy.

Participating in the Model UN encouraged me to learn more about international relations, engage in problem solving with other countries, and exercise my communication skills. This experience has also taught me the importance of seeing situations from other points of view. It was interesting to see how every country saw the same situation, but crafted different solutions and offered different perspectives. For example, our entire body agreed that it was essential to address the economic inequalities women faced when entering the job market, but we all had different ways to approach it. When everyone negotiated and debated, we were able to work together in solving this imperative issue (if only Congress could work this well together).

When we were talking about our experiences, Laniesha Gray made a really good point about our experiences: It's one thing to learn about the four C's, but it's another to actually practice them. I can honestly say, that's what we all did at this conference. I was so proud of everyone stepping up to the plate and representing Columbia College to their fullest potential. We acted as agents of change to work towards a world of peace and prosperity (as cliche as that sounds). I felt a sense of personal responsibility to do what's best for not only the country of Italy, but also for the world...(okay, that's my last cliche).

I think Dr. Whitson said it best: "A leader is not a leader because of the position she holds, but the difference she makes." After judging from the resolutions we tirelessly worked to pass through, I can honestly say that we all made a difference in our "mock global society."

So, thank you Dr. Whitson, Dr. Burk, Dr. Sharkey and all those who showed us support in our endeavors!

Finally a CC Alum,
~Ophelia

Happy Holidays

2008-12-11T11:30:00.000-08:00

Well, fellow delegates this year is almost gone. I would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I also want to encourage the courageous women of Columbia College to accept the torch from the Model UN 2008 class, and apply for the Model UN next year. Do not be afraid, if you know nothing about politics Dr. Jones will make sure you know all you need to know. Have a Great Break!

Brittany Davis
General Assembly

PRESENTATION STUDENT UNION

2008-12-05T08:13:00.001-08:00

Last night the Model UN delegation had a public presentation in the Student Union. Although we had a small crowd, those that did show up received a great deal of information, and the 'inside scoop' about being a delegate at the American Model UN. The delegates were forthright and very honest about their experiences in Chicago. The 20 minute presentation was interesting, humourous and honest.

Above: (L -R) Just before we started, Melanie Smalls, Miranda Thompkins, Ophelia Doe, Laura Conrad, Lynnette Cuenca and Rhiannon Maurer preparing.

Below" (L-R) Lynnette and Rhiannon, then Jennifer McGriff, Ramona Gibbs, Laniesha Gray, Kara Simmons and Brittany Davis.

Again, this was before the delegation started the presentation.

Here, some of the delegation are signing Thank You cards for people who supported the Model UN.

Many of the delegates will still be posting this weekend, and I still have quite a few more photos of Chicago yet to post. So please do stop by again. Next Monday the Model UN will be hosting a Thank You Lunch for Dr Burk, Dr Sharkey and Dr Whitson, who were the major sponsors of this year's trip. We will post photos of the lunch.

Looking Back...

2008-12-03T14:25:00.000-08:00

As I glance back over the last 3 1/2 years, I can truly say I have grown. Now that I am a senior, I realize why my mother, aunts, and grandmother emphasized that C2 is the way to go. I came at the age of 17 very serious, dependent, and a little scared.Now I am 21 and I am serious but I do understand that life is too short to be too serious, I am independent, confident,competent, and courageous enough to step outside of myself and make a difference. When I first arrived to Chicago I was a little intimidated, but I realized that I have an education just like the rest of my fellow delegates and I have the strength to state my opinions.

Sadly, this course is coming to an end. I would like to thank the faculty and staff of Columbia College for investing in me and my dreams. I would also like to thank my fellow classmates for working hard in Chicago. But last but not least thank you President Whitson and Dr. Jones for believing in us.

General Assembly
Brittany Davis

One of the Best Experiences Ever!

2008-12-03T10:00:00.000-08:00

First and foremost, I would like to congratulate my fellow delegates on a job well done. It was an honor for me to serve as your permanent representative and I was very proud to be a member of such a great delegation. The next Model UN class has a hard act to follow! Each and every one of you encompassed the 4 C's and showed the other delegations just how strong Columbia College women are - GO KOALAS! I would also like to thank Dr. Jones and all faculty members who supported us (we could not have done it without you!) I truly appreciated the oppurtunity to attend such a great conference. Chicago was amazing and I can't wait to go back next year!

I have to say that it was a lot of fun serving on the Committee for Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice (CCPCJ). CCPCJ was pretty small with only 33 countries so communication and teamwork was a lot easier for us. Our two topics were Human Trafficking and the Global Initiative to Combat Transnational Organized Crime. With the help of my partner Rhiannon Maurer(kudos to Rhiannon for being such a great partner!) we were able to write and pass a resolution that proposed methods to prevent Human Trafficking. Unfortunately, our committee was so focused on Human Trafficking, we were not able to really come to a consensus about Transnational Organized Crime. However, we still accomplished a great deal and we made a lot of new friends from all over the country!

Jennifer McGriff

Day 2 as Delegates

2008-12-02T19:08:00.000-08:00

Day 2: Day 2 was long, but it was worth it. At 8:30 a.m. we had to be in our seats ready for role call. We came in confident,because we had a better understanding of rules and procedures. Malaria was still the hot topic of the day. After everyone decided that their were going to look out for the interest of their country, I knew this had to be the Model UN. I began to realize why somethings are never solved. By the end of the day I realized that some students blew the conference out of proportion. Some students were not acting diplomatic at all, because they were so anxious to get a resolution passed. During the conference I learned that the African Union (AU) wanted to support from European Union (EU) countries, but they did not want the EU to monitor the funding. The EU did not agree; therefore the World Heatlth Organization seemed to be the best mediator to help solve the problem. Only two resolutions were passed, but we ready to face Day 3.....

The General Assembly Plenary
_ Brittany and Kara

Day One as Delegates

2008-12-01T19:43:00.001-08:00

Day 1: As delegates of the Model UN it was sort of intimidating. But Kara and I managed to pull ourselves together. Without any problems we made new friends and we made sure that people knew that we knew exactly what we were talking about. Despite the fact that the program started late, we placed our best foot foward and we manged to discuss our first topic which was centered around malaria. We even learned from our research that 90% of malaria cases occur in Africa. In fact 3,000 people are affected by malaria each day.
After the role was called people tried to make us change our minds about the topics that should be discussed. But as diplomatic Italians, we made it clear that we would rather discuss the disease that is harming so many individuals. Day one was a long, but we learned a lot as displayed the characteristics of Columbia College Women.

- General Assembly Plenary
Kara Simmons and Brittany Davis

Reflection-Part One

2008-12-01T18:31:00.000-08:00

Wow...this whole experience has felt like a whirlwind! It seems like just yesterday I was preparing for the conference...and now it's completely over!

I must say....this was a wonderful experience! I learned so much about the girls-well, women-that I worked with, and it didn't take me long to realize that we had a powerhouse group from Columbia College this year. I'm so glad that we all did so wonderfully after all the hard work we put into it....and even better, I know we can all say that we made Dr. Jones incredibly proud and made all her hard work worth it.

I'm all over the place in this blog because I have so much to say! I think I'll keep my general comments and reflections in this one, and talk about my committee and the work we did in another one...I think the work Italy's delegation did on the CCPCJ certainly deserves its own entry.

Chicago was amazing (and freezing!)...the hotel was incredibly nice, and the men and women from all the other schools were just as amazing. I met so many intelligent, fun people...these are definitely memories I'll never forget! I loved working with Jennifer...as a returning Model UN'er, she was incredible with helping me prepare and for calming my nerves...I couldn't have done it without her! (I'll have to remember to thank her in person). I'll also have to thank Dr. Jones for the opportunity and for all the preparation and encouragement she gave us.

Hmm...I think the rest is for my next blog...

~*~Rhiannon~*~

I am the Second Committee

2008-12-01T08:25:00.000-08:00

I was the Second Committee...ALONE...as scary as i thought it was going to be, it actually was more beneficial for me to be on this committe by myself. I was nervous at first because it was my first time at the MODEL UN, and the thought of being alone just left me with all of these horror stories spinning through my mind.
The topics covered during our meetings were 1) external debt crisis 2) industrial development cooperation. Sounds complicated-but was not. the external debt was easy enough to discuss. I learned that Italy contributes a lot to the Monetary Debt relief fund, and Italy is a member of the well known G8. (which made Italy a well known and needed opinion). I debated with 'developing' countries about lowering tariffs...(why would we do that? we want money!!ha) but debating with developing countries helped me learn a lot about the world as a whole. I never knew that so many problems existed among so many other nations. I guess being an American I am use to being able to get what I want, not necessarily what i need. It was hard to keep my mind on being an 'Italian' and not the 'American' I am. The secong topic was industrial development cooperation, which basically talked about setting up jobs and industries in less developed nations to begin growing their economy. Building up their economy would help the local residents benefit from jobs. This was the harder of the two topics to discuss, because Italy disagreed with a lot of the European Union on this topic, so it was not easy to 'buddy up' with local European countries.
Altogether, I had a wonderful time. I not only learned about Italy, I learned about the world. I learned about problems that affect the United States and a huge part of the world. This experience helped me build on the 4 Cs. I had to use all 4 of the Cs at the MODEL UN. I met some very very great people and people who were not afraid of the challenge presented to them at the MODEL UN. I look forward to returning next year, with a better knowledge of how everything works at the MODEL UN. I will be able to pack a lighter bag, because I will know what to expect weather wise. I had an amazing time, and I thank everyone for their support!
:)
~Laura Conrad

First Committee!

2008-12-01T07:41:00.000-08:00

Hello all,

Well Melanie and I were in the first committee which was regional disarmament and disarmament and development. I could only write on my behalf of having the experience to be in the first committee, which by the way was very fun. Our first day there was very hectic due to countries forming alliances and the EU trying to get everyone together, but by the time we did get into a group as for me it was an adrenaline rush. Serbia and Germany became our closest allies and we tried to help them with resolutions and discussed who should we convince to sponsor it. Even though it was very serious as to what we were doing, there was also funny moments that i will not forget; like when Isreal would threaten their enemies with notes or the time Melanie and I thought we were bombed! Also, the delegate from Kuwait would go up to the mic and say that one delegate is saying stupid things or that a resolution isn't making sense or that no one has anything smart to say. The fun part was caucusing and voting, i loved voting a little too much i think to tell you the truth. While Melanie would go about and talk to our allies about a resolution, I would vote for Italy and be hyponotized by all the resolutions. The whole experience was great, I learned more than I thought I would about the AMUN conference. I also learned that being shy is not an option there as well, from the first moment that committees were trying to create resolutions there was no time to be shy, I just had to be confident and speak loudly and what I thought. That was truly the only way to get the point across to other delegates, plus it was very noisy in the room. The First Committee in general did pass some resolutions which was a great result and it was nice knowing that we did our part to help pass the resolution as well. If I had a chance to go again I would most definitly and if I had to do something differently than the first time it would have to be that I need to get more involved with other delegates and truly work on a resolution and have our name on one!

DAY 5 & TRIP HOME

2008-11-29T11:30:00.001-08:00

Our last day in Chicago has many images. Enjoy..and this is not the last blog, many committees still have to post and I still have more photos, so please do pop back every day..till the end of the semester. The Model UN is not finished yet.

And remember..DEC 4th, 7pm in the Student Union upstairs, the MODEL UN Delegation will do a public presentation about their experiences in the Model UN.

Chicago at dusk. Walking from the Navy Pier back to the hotel.

Ramona Gibbs (above & below) working hard to get those resolutions passed before we all leave.

Above: (l to R) Brittany Davis and Kara Simmons

Bottom: Lynnette Cuenca

The trip back to South Carolina. Rushing out of the hotel, holiday traffic, took an hour to get to the airport and another 45 minutes to finally get to the gate (after check-in and security). Everyone was starved. Brittany Davis eating a yogurt and trying to hide from the camera..

Below, Melanie Smalls bought a pizza, while Miranda Thompkins relaxes after eating her hamburger.

below, Laura Conrad shows us her dinner..I believe candy covered pretzels and another bag of like snacks.

Below: Miranda Thompkins is hiding behind that McDonald's bag!

Above: Lynnette Cuenca shows us she knows her Mentos commercials.

Below: Ophelia Doe, Jennifer McGriff and Rhiannon Maurer have a chat while waiting for boarding.

Below, we have shots done by Brittany Davis, on the plane, on my camera as we were flying to Columbia.

And lastly, we arrive in Columbia. Some had people meeting them, the rest of us were grateful Dr McConnell took time out that late evening to meet us with the big bus.

All of following were taken while waiting for the baggage, which at one point seemed longer than the flight!

Brittany Davis and friend.

Miranda Thompkins

Laura Conrad on the baggage rack.

Jennifer McGriff and Ramona Gibbs

Melanie Smalles and her mom.

Ophelia Doe and Laniesha Gray

Miranda Thompkins

Rhiannon Maurer and Lynnette Cuenca

Success @ AMUN

2008-11-28T13:08:00.000-08:00

Anyone who knows me knows that I am not a morning person-I prefer to sleep in late because I stay up late. Anything that happens before 12pm is not for me. But at the AMUN conference I found myself looking forward to being in my seat at 8:30am for roll call and for some extra caucusing oppurtunities. I met amazing people from amazing places, shopped the 'Magnificent Mile', conquered Chicago and changed the world all in the course of four days. I couldn't have asked for a more fulfilling experience.

Chicago is a BEAUTIFUL city with so much culture. The skyline is gorgeous and it earned the name 'Windy City' as we almost got blown away on more than a few occasions. It's the city I most compare to home (Boston). In the beginning I was a little intimidated by more experienced representatives at our conference but I quickly used my inexperience as a motivation tool. I met with other delegates in the late night caucus areas, often until three and four in the morning, to compare country history and devise a plan on how we could get other countries to advocate for our cause. The simulation felt so real! When people would call out 'Italy', I'd respond. When I formed sentences they started with 'Italy' instead of 'I' and when I made decisions I didn't make them as an American but as an Italian. It was interesting to have to step outside myself and look at issues from a different perspective. I was on the 4th Committee (Special Political and Decolonization) and our primary focuses were Mine Action and the Isreali-Palestinian conflict. All my hard work paid off when my resolution on the conflict was passed with general consensus. The feeling of pride I felt when everyone applauded was unparrelled by any other success I've had this semester. It was a great end to a great trip.

DAY 4...A FULL Day of Work!

2008-11-28T12:08:00.000-08:00

Here we see Miranda Thompkins hard at work.

Day 4 was a full day for the delegates. Knowing that there was a deadline to get resolutions passed in the committees, to be sent to the General Plenury for a full vote on the last day, the delegates were very busy caucausing and dealing with all sorts of last minute snafus

These two photos show Melanie Smalls also hard at work.

Here (above) we have Laura Conrad trying to get into the mix.

This was Jennifer McGriff's press conference (second from left).

Again, Laura Conrad in her seat on the committee.

Melanie Smalls

Lynnette Cuenca and Melanie Smalls in their seats in their committee.

Jennifer, after the press conference.

We had a few hours free for lunch so some of use went out to eat. Here from left to right, Ramona Gibbs, Brittany Davis and Ophelia Doe with her back to the camera.

Here in the entrance of the restaurant, (l to r) Laniesha Gray, Miranda Thompkins, Laura Conrad and Kara Simmons.

(L to R) Brittany Davis, Ophelia Doe and Melanie Smalls.

Here we have Kara Simmons and Laura Conrad with Laniesha, Miranda and Lynnette with their backs to the camera.

(L to R) Lynnette Cuenca, Miranda thompkins and Laniesha Gray w Laura Conrad and Kara Simmons with their backs to the camera.

home sweet home

2008-11-26T19:58:00.000-08:00

session after session of being serious ambassadors paid off the last night, the AMUN hosted a dance. it was fun and exciting, more entertaining for some people! :). returning from Chicago is a day that i will remember forever. our cab driver was very....well for a better word we will say he was interesting. he was talking our heads off and aggravating us and adding to the stress of the travel. we squeezed 6 girls and luggage into his minivan taxi while waiting for the other taxi to arrive. THANK HEAVENS FOR DR. JONES and her determination! without her, i think that we would have missed out flight. a nap time later we arrived at the airport...after being given life lessons by our taxi driver and watching him dance along to the radio. he exclaimed, "I the best taxi driver in Chicago, I get you to the airport fast!"...needless to say we were all frustrated with this ride. enjoyable as it was, we were excited to arrive a little closer to home. checking in for the last time and one more barefoot security check... i was ready to board the plane and hurry back to Columbia. the flight was the shortest flight ever, because as soon as i buckled my seat belt it was nap time. what seemed like 20 minutes to me, was more like 2 hours in reality-HOME SWEET HOME! i could not believe that we were already back in Columbia. I felt that we had JUST left for Chicago.
i learned a lot about myself during this trip. i also learned a lot about a big city- walk fast, talk fast, dress warm (the windy city), Dont try to order sweet tea, and a little bit about directions! i had a wonderful time and although i really enjoyed being an Italian, i look forward to returning next year as Niger.
Thanks to all who supported us, and for those who will continue supporting us!

ABOVE:Approaching the sears tower

Visiting the Sears Tower-cant forget about Dr. Jones.

~Laura Conrad

One More Day Before I See the Sun!

2008-11-24T20:41:00.000-08:00

My experience in Chicago has been great! But none of this would have been possible without the help of President Whitson, Dr. Shakey, the entire Political Science and History Department. I have enjoyed the UN, but I am ready to go home to my family and enjoy some REAL SOUTHERN FOOD. The Model UN is great, I have learned how to make motions in session, pass resolutions, and sponsor resolutions. In fact the General Assembly Plenary, has passed our resolution. Overall, this is an experience I will NOT forget. THANKS DR. JONES.

- Brittany Davis ( The General Assembly Plenary)

It seems like this day will never end!

2008-11-24T20:38:00.000-08:00

Great news! Italy got another resolution passed in the CCPCJ and we had a great time cacausing and debating on it. I had a great time hosting a press conference with South Africa, Japan, and Turkey on our resolution pertaining to Human Trafficking. (Dr. Jones grilled us harder than the actual reporters! LOL! Gotta love Dr. Jones!)

I decided to apply for a position on staff for the 2009 AMUN Conference and I had my interview this afternoon. I was interviewed by one of the Under-Secretaries of the UN and she later informed me that I am now an official AMUN staff member for the 2009 AMUN Conference! I an extremely happy for this honor and will do my best to represent Columbia College next year. It will be a drastic change from a delegate to a staff member but I am sure I will have just as much fun. So much has happened and we still have a day to go (it feels as if we just got here!) Ramona has a 1am Emergency Session in the Security Council so I think I will take a nap so I can be awake to watch and support her. So many of my fellow Italian delegates have gotten resolutions passed today! Go Koalas!

Jennifer McGriff

Coming to an end....

2008-11-24T20:31:00.002-08:00

Since I have arrived to Chicago it has been a rush of a lifetime! From the first day it was confusion of what in the world was going on, creating alliances, sponsoring resolutions and even trying to pass a resolution. It was work and sometimes you wanted to rip your hair out, but it is def worth it! If i have gained anything from this trip it is that you have to be confident! brave! and even a bit crazy to understand what is going on during sessions. You will also learn what it means to have patience...and lots of it, but after all there are real life delegates who go through this whole resolution passing thing all the time! imagine how they feel. With being in a room for most of the day, when it was time to go out and enjoy Chicago everything was great except for the freezing cold wind. I am so greatful that i was chosen to represent Columbia College and the political science/history department and wont forget it!

2008-11-24T20:31:00.001-08:00

FIREWORKS & STAINED GLASS & OBAMA & NAVY PIER

2008-11-24T16:05:00.000-08:00

What does fireworks, stained glass, the Navy Pier and Obama have in common? Why, they are all in Chicago, of course!

The ladies had an afternoon off, from 1 till 6, so some of us decided to go to the Navy Pier. It is a pier, where tour boats stop, has quite a few different restaurants, cafes and small, local owned stores. Plus, it houses the world's largest stained glass museum..The Smith Museum of Stained Glass.

Here the ladies pose in the front of the entrance to the pier, all decorated for Christmas.

Back row: Lynnette Cuenca, Melanie Smalls, Laura Conrad, Brittany Davis, Ophelia Doe and Laniesha Gray. Front row: Ramona Gibbs, Kara Simmons and Miranda Thompkins.

Below, some of the art works, bronzes, we encountered in the park in front of the pier.

Above: Here Laura Conrad and Laniesha Gray flirt with a very cold man!

Of course, President Elect Obama is from Chicago and Obamamania reigns in Chicago. Here is a sampling of T-shirts, hot sauce, playing cards etc and a very telling 75% off sign in a store window.

Here are some great examples of the stained glass displayed in the museum. From classical style, abstract, religious and modern. It was fun to look at, and it was free..the best part! It is important to note that many of the pieces were made by Tiffany in the mid to late 1880's.

Below are photos of the fireworks for the Festival of Lights.

2009..WE ARE NIGER!

2008-11-24T10:35:00.000-08:00

Well the country lottery was held today and what a wait. What is a country lottery you ask? First dibs basically..you need to pre-register and pay a $50 fee per delegation to be registered for the lottery. Names are placed in a box, box is shaken and names are pulled out of the box. Last year, Columbia College was 7th..so I was able to pick Italy. But this year, we were 72nd!! The delegations that are called first, get to pick their countries first, you have 3 minutes to make up your mind or you go to the bottom of the barrel, to be called again after everyone else has gone. Now for the first 20, its easy but as each delegation goes, and the list of available countries get shorter, the task is more difficult. Most delegations would like countries that have several roles, such as the Security Council seat, or the Historical Security Council seat, or a Court Justice etc. Every country has a seat (a minimum of 1 and a max of 2) in the General Assembly, First, Second, Third and Fourth Committees but the other committees are very valued.

Niger will of course be on the GA, 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th Committees, as well as the Commission on Narcotic Drugs, Economic and Social Council and the Economic Commission for Africa and the WFP..World Food program.

Niger was 16th on my list of preferred countries, but considering we were 72nd in the lottery, I am glad it was still available. Africa is a great continent and a wonderful learning experience for all students. I am sure the Niger delegation will be as professional and prepared as the previous two delegations have been. We look forward to representing Niger and Columbia College.

Remember, if your interested in being part of the Model UN, make sure you fill out the applications next Spring. Dr Jones

Late, but better late than never

2008-11-23T21:39:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited to be here! To see so many people come together and discuss matters of importance within a simulation and still have the ability to take what we are doing here so serious, is wonderful to see...
I'm actually sitting across from First Committee, Greece- The guy who continued to question "Why?", ever-so nonchalantly, as he proceeded to roll up a cigarette right in front of us trying to sell us on his debate, Lol!...Yea, it's pretty hilarious here, too!

OH YEA! So, in the middle of a session someone sends me, (well, Italy) an origami box with "Italy" on it and when we opened it, there was NOTHING! That was scary...I just knew, Italy had gotten bombed...Here I was, going through ways in my mind I was going to "drop the bomb" on everyone else-Dr. Jones, Jennifer (being a veteran) and everyone else, that here it was- the first day and I managed to get us BOMBED!
-But never fear...The "Honorable Chair" simply deemed it as-"harmless" origami!

I think we can all agree as well, that there were in fact a number of cute (let, me say as "the bio major"), XY chromosomes walking around...BOYS HELLO!...(What? We're an all girls school...Were we really expected not to notice?!)

Well, since we're on the topic...I think I'm going to go find that cute Lebanon, First Committee guy and discuss......Umm.....Transpareny.....Yea....

-Ciao!
Melanie Smalls

Experiences so far

2008-11-23T20:44:00.000-08:00

I am really enjoying being in Chicago and participating in the Model UN. It is a lot of work to get a resolution passed, but it is also a lot of fun. Italy helped propose a resolution with Serbia and Bosnia but it unfortunately failed. A resolution was passed in my committee which Italy voted. I am looking foward to discussing the second topic, and hopefully getting a resolution passed!

It is really cold here, but very beautiful. I do not want to leave. It hasn't snowed yet, but it is excepted to tonight and tomorrow! We visited the Sears Tower and the views were amazing. I look forward to more fun and work tomorrow and Tuesday!!

Miranda

Mission Accomplished

2008-11-23T20:36:00.001-08:00

Well, my goal was to work with other countries and pass at least one resolution during my time here at the AMUN Conference. After hours and hours of hard work, persuasion, and speeches, a resolution was passed on the topic of Regional Conference on Women in Latin America and the Caribbean. Italy worked together with the countries of France, Germany, Uruguay, Aruba, Haiti, Venezuela, Canada, Paraguay, Ecuador, Puerto Rico and the United States of America to get the resolution passed. After it passed with a consensus, I was elated! It’s 11:35pm and I’m ready to head to bed so I can be fresh with ideas for tomorrow!
Ophelia

CCPCJ Resolution Passed! Go Jennifer and Rhiannon!

2008-11-23T20:15:00.000-08:00

After hours of hard work, drafting, and caucusing Rhiannon and Jennifer had the extreme pleasure of watching as their resolution was passed in the Committee on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice!!! The resolution includes measures to educate and raise awareness about human trafficking around the globe. The resolution was passed by consensus meaning NO objections from other countries. We are very happy for this resolution and cannot wait to get started on our next topic. Chicago is amazing and we are really enjoying ourselves. GO KOALAS!

Jennifer McGriff

Caucusing, Caucusing and More Caucusing!

2008-11-23T11:44:00.000-08:00

Well what does caucusing mean, and how do the CC ladies do it? With the 4 Cs of course!

Here we have Ophelia Doe in a caucusing session. That is where the committees break for 20 to 30 minutes, so the delegates from the different countries can talk to each other, do some convincing, cajoling and just plain try to make another country see your way of thinking so you may have more signatures on a resolution. The more signatures there are on a resolution, the more chance it has of passing. What is a resolution? A resolution is a statement, usually of some specified action by some countries against or for another country. The resolution to blockade Cuba for example, or sanction Iran/N Korea etc. These are examples of resolutions. However, every country has their own national interest, and those interests are usually in conflict with another's interest, and to have many countries sign a resolution is much harder than you think. Therefore, much of the days in session are in caucusing. Even after 4 days, there might not be a resolution signed and passed by some committees.

In these photos you can see how delegates break up into groups for caucusing. These groups are usually area specific: Asian, African Union, EU etc.

Above we have Melanie Smalls breaking for caucusing with other delegates, and to the left we have Lynnette Cuenca conversing with a fellow delegate. While below we see both of them hard at work

Here we have Rhiannon Maurer and Jennifer McGriff working hard in a group.

While to the left we have Miranda Thompkins out the conference hall and below Ramona Gibbs in action in the Security Council.

To the left, Laniesha Gray is happy in her committee work.

Delegates try to find space anywhere, in able to caucus, even if it means sitting on the floor (above).

Today was the first day that the Faculty Advisor/Permanent Representative meeting was held. Our Permanent Representative is Jennifer McGriff. And she is representing Italy beautifully.

See you all tomorrow. Regards Dr Jones

Italy-G8-EU-whatever you want to say...we are Italy

2008-11-23T10:46:00.000-08:00

i know why they call it the windy city...they were not kidding!!! well its day two of the actual Model UN...and i can tell that this is going to be a fun experience. I was never one to get in front of a group of people and say anything, but C2 has shaped me into the leader i am today. i have noticed that most of the delegates from major countries are women. i found this to be especially empowering. although interacting with all of these men has been fun, i really enjoy speaking with the women in the group. i look forward to caucasing a little more today and working to pass the new resolutions. i have learned so much about myself and look forward to the rest of out stay in the windy city! i especially look forward to sleep!!!! :)

~Laura

2008-11-23T10:28:00.000-08:00

IT IS COLD & WINDY! I am really enjoying myself! Its wonderful to see so many new and young faces all interested in bettering our world. I am in the General Assembly and we are focusing on Rolling back the epidemic of Malaria in Africa. I have noticed that men often try to dominate our sessions! Like my partner Brittany said Thank God for C2! I am delighted that i have the opportunity to practice the Great 4 C's.....Courage,Competence,Confidence & Commitment!

Kara s.

MY THOUGHTS.....

2008-11-23T10:24:00.000-08:00

So, far everything is going well. I am meeting new faces, and trying to realize that everyone is not a southern. This experience is amazing. But I never knew how dominate men where until I came here. Thank God, for C squares!! All in all, I am enjoying the lights, huge buildings, and NOT the cold weather.

BRRRRRRR....COLD!! SEARS TOWER....HOT!!

2008-11-22T06:56:00.000-08:00

From L to R...Laura Conrad, Jennifer McGriff and Laniesha Gray

..Ophelia Doe, Brittany Davis, Melanie Smalls

..Lynnette Cuenca, Rhiannon Maurer, Ramona Gibbs, Laura Conrad

..Kara Simmons and Miranda Thompkins

...Jennifer McGriff and Laniesha Gray

..Lynnette Cuenca, Rhiannon Maurer, Ramona Gibbs and Laura Conrad

We met in front of the police station at 7:15 and finally arrived Chicago around 12. Got to the hotel at 12:30 and were allowed to check in early. Thank you Sheraton. We got changed and were famished, so first order of the day..FOOD!

After lunch some of us decided to go to the Sears Tower. We were told it was a mile, more or less. Okay, too many and too expensive for a taxi, and we work out everyday anyway, right? Well to put this into perspective, the temperature yesterday was 29 degrees. Yes, that's right, 29 degrees! And, by the way, it was light when we started our walk and almost twilight when we finished! It was two miles and it was about 20 HUGE blocks to walk..in 29 degree weather. Halfway there, we were so cold and frozen we couldn't feel the pain anyway! But once we were there it was worth the $12.95. First, just to get out of the cold, and then after the funky movie (that was about 20 yrs old..history of the tower) and we got to go to the top, the 103rd floor, it was stupendous. The walk was worth it!. The following pictures tell the tale, on a clear day you can see up to 4 states, and the sunset was an artist's dream. Enjoy!

Laura Conrad, Jennifer McGriff and Ophelia Doe

Laura Conrad, Ophelia Doe and Miranda Thompkins at the Sears Tower Lobby..they are lobbying for the 2016 Olympics.

The Opening Plenary is tonight at 6pm. The ladies need to be in thier respective committees to go over the rules and procedures at 5. I instead, will be in my room, on the 32nd floor, taking pictures of the Festival of Lights and Fireworks. As soon as I have them I will post them so all CC can enjoy. Dr Jones

7:10 to Chicago

2008-11-20T09:22:00.000-08:00

It's finally here! Tomorrow morning we will be heading to Chicago to participate in this year's American Model United Nations Conference. I will be representing Italy on the Economic and Social Commission of the Latin America and Caribbean countries. Like many of the ladies, I'm feeling excited, confident, and nervous all at the same time. I can't wait to discuss economic issues and gender equality with the other delegates and I hope I can be persuasive enough to get a resolution passed. We have worked together as a team to keep each other on our toes on our assigned topics by helping each other on research, offering advice on different resources, and even practicing a similation of the Model United Nations. A combination of this preparation and guidance from Dr. Jones assures me we'll do proficiently at the conference. Not only do we have the confidence and courage to perform well at the conference, but we have the competence and commitment to represent Italy to our fullest potential.

We've been preparing for this conference since the summer, so I'm sure the Columbia College delegation will represent Italy, our school, and this state just fine.

Arrivederci, CC! See you Tuesday!

~Ophelia

Oh My God, We Have 1,2.... 2 Days Left Before Being In the Windy City!

2008-11-19T15:09:00.000-08:00

I am excited! I have never been to Chicago, but I am sure that it is cold. I am going to love seeing new people with different ideas and cultures. Being that we are the only school from South Carolina, I have to represent my state well. For those of you who do not know, Columbia College will represent the entire state of South Carolina at the Model UN. The Model UN is a convention for college students across the world who play the role of UN delegates for three days. As the days approach I am really understanding why Dr. Jones made the entire class research during the summer.

_ Brittany Davis

Can't Contain the EXCITEMENT!

2008-11-18T22:07:00.000-08:00

I cannot believe we are only a few days away from Chicago. I am so excited about participating in the Model UN and being able to meet new people from all over the nation and world. This will be a great experience for me and I can't wait until Friday when we are on the plane. I am a little nervous, but I am sure I will be having so much fun when I get there that I will not be able to notice.

I was told it snowed in Chicago this week, and it is well below freezing, if you factor in the wind chill. I can't wait to see actual snow! It hasn't really snowed in South Carolina since I was in elementary school. I will have to pack warm so I don't freeze to death.

Antsy

2008-11-13T21:04:00.000-08:00

Exactly one week left until we board the plane bright and early! I'm looking forward to many things! Especially Dr. Jones and her lovely camera in our faces as we arrive to leave campus at 730A.M. I can't wait to fly, and arrive in Chicago with everyone! I look forward to meeting new people from all over the world. I will have to admit that I am a little nervous. It seems that we were JUST getting to know each other and were told to learn everything about Italy..we are to BE Italians! I can't believe how much time has flown bye...we will be representing Italy in a week-in Chicago. I know that I am not alone when I say that I am anxious, excited, nervous, and ready to get there are start debating and thinking like an Italian!

Hello Columbia College, We Are The Model UN

2008-11-13T18:38:00.000-08:00

Top Photo (L to R): Ramona Gibbs, Melanie Smalls, Lynnette Cuenca, Laura Conrad

Bottom Photo (L to R): Rhiannon Maurer, Diana Fillippo (a friend of the delegates) , Ramona Gibbs

Next Photo: Mrs Parker and Dr Sharkey in the background.

Last Photo: in the foreground smiling to the camera, Ophelia Doe and Laniesha Gray.

Hello Columbia College. The American Model UN Delegates representing Italy are getting ready for a ride of a lifetime. In 9 days we will be leaving for Chicago Il, and as we count down the days, the expectations and nerves are rising. We are at the moment practicing doing the simulations so everyone will be ready in their respective roles as delegates to the Model UN. Final preparations are being made, warm clothes are being bought, suitcases are being dusted off and business attire are being sought. These last two months have been spent on preparing for roles that can never be fully prepared for. This is strictly a 'hands on' experiential learning exercise. It is the ultimate model for the 4 C's.

Over 135 universities and colleges will be attending with well over 1000 delegates in one huge convention building. Delegates from Taiwan, Ghana, Belgium and Nigeria, and China will be attending. Ivy league schools such as Notre Dame as well as Grinnell, Aquinas, Alverno - the only other all female college attending, Wabash, Loyola and Bayler. We will be the only college, the second year running, from South Carolina. A great honor your CC sisters will carry proudly.

Please return to this log daily from November 21 to November 26 as the delegates will be posting daily. We will also upload a bunch of photos, so all of CC can be part of this. If you see any of the delegates before we leave, don't forget to wish them luck. They will do CC proud.

A little about the Model Un....

2008-10-07T09:10:00.001-07:00

Dates: Nov 21-25
Place: Chicago Il
Event: American Model UN
Participants: Over 135 univ/colleges including universities from Taiwan, Ghana , Belguim, Nigeria and China. Also attending Ivy League Notre Dame as well as Grinnell, Aquinas, Alverno, Wabash, Loyola and Baylor. Only two all female colleges are attending, Columbia College and Alverno and we are the only college/univ in SC attending.