Across Aisles

January 7, 2021 | Evelyn “Danielle” Guerra

Recent Grad Reflects on Experiences in Model UN Program

By Evelyn “Danielle” Guerra
UT Tyler Presidential Scholar and Alumnus
(2020, B.S. Political Science)

I started participating in UT Tyler’s Model United Nations program my first semester at the University and have continued to participate into my final semester as a senior. I was incredibly nervous and simply hopeful that I would make some friends. I certainly did not expect the large amount of benefits I received. 

Throughout my time as a student delegate, I was honored to travel to Atlanta, New York and Germany participating in eight MUN conferences and tackling current global issues to create potential solutions from an international standpoint. I have always enjoyed reading about and discussing global issues like poverty, climate change and water scarcity. 

Outside of the Model UN program, I have rarely encountered the opportunity to really focus in on issues of that magnitude and come up with sustainable solutions with like-minded people. 

The best part of the Model UN program at UT Tyler is the amazing leadership and support from the Department of Political Science and History and the lifelong friendships and contacts I have made along the way. The experience and education I have attained through Model UN is truly invaluable. Students learn public speaking skills, research methods, international relations, team building, and dozens of other skills that have proven valuable in academia, the workforce and in my personal life. 

The preparation work for the conferences is always challenging, but the professors assisting the program do an outstanding job of preparing students for committee, and the payoff is immensely rewarding. In Model UN, you get out of it what you put into it. So, if you go into it with a positive mindset and willingness to learn and work, the benefits are countless. 

From issues such as gender equality, climate change, weapons and arms, human rights and countless others, there is always a committee or topic that students are interested in studying. The most important factor contributing to the success of UT Tyler’s Model UN program is the amazing faculty supporting and preparing the team. 

Out of all the benefits of participating in UT Tyler’s Model UN program, the relationships formed between your fellow students, faculty and the international students and faculty you work with at the conferences is of the highest value. Networking, either for business or friendship, has generated multiple opportunities for me that I would not have without the Model UN program. I am beyond thankful for the Model UN program at UT Tyler and would greatly encourage anyone interested to participate in it.

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Guerra was one of six students to earn the Honorable Mention Delegation Award for representing the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg at the fall 2020 National Model United Nations Conference, held virtually in Washington, D.C. 

This distinction is presented to the top delegations and recognizes outstanding teamwork, leadership, speaking and negotiating abilities, as well as knowledge of the issues and proper usage of the procedure rules.  

Other UT Tyler students honored were Morgan Carter of New Orleans, Louisiana, Winslow Conneen of Juneau, Alaska, Baylee Farris of Palestine, Melodie Lamborn of Kansas City, Colorado; and Carson Young of Victoria. Carter and Conneen also were awarded an Outstanding Delegates in Committee award at the conference.

Students interested in the program should contact Melissa Salgado at msalgado@uttyler.edu. 

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