Within the four walls of room E1, Model United Nations Club strives to promote a diplomatic dialogue amongst Carlmont students in an accepting and unbiased environment through debate, discussion, legislative simulation, and advocacy.
Model United Nations Club was started at Carlmont in 2016 by Club President Alex Derhacobian who hoped to be able to simulate the procedures of the United Nations.
“I have always had a passion for foreign affairs and debate, so it was a natural decision for me to take initiative and begin Model United Nations here at Carlmont,” Derhacobian said. “Many other schools in the Bay Area have similar clubs and participate in regional conferences, so I figured I would create a similar club allowing interested students to get involved.”
During their lunchtime meetings, the club provides a presentation on a particular international topic, followed by a parliamentary structured discussion and debate surrounding the current event.
Current political discussion topics include the debate surrounding global gun control, relations between North Korea and the U.S., possible invasion of Iran, Russian expansionism, nuclear proliferation, humanitarian intervention, and more.
Club Vice President Sam Hosmer said, “Carlmont Model United Nations Club has become a forum where like and unlike-minded people can come to voice their opinions and debate about international issues. Sometimes, our debate format strays from the parliament style as our community has grown more comfortable with sharing their political beliefs while remaining respectful with one another.”
Our ultimate goal above all is to foster this generation’s involvement and awareness of the reality of global conflict.
— Alex Derhacobian
Along with encouraging political discussion, the club focuses on providing an opportunity for club members to improve their public speaking, negotiation, and argumentation skills.
Junior Michael Atkin said, “Model United Nations is so much more than just a legislative simulation. This club offers students a chance to express their political stances without judgment and allows them to become more comfortable with public speaking, as well as their communication skills.”
The club currently has 30 active members and is looking to expand their political influence among the Carlmont community.
“Model United Nations is an expressive outlet for student political thought and is open to anyone who is interested in discussing solutions to our world’s brutal current events,” Derhacobian said. “Our ultimate goal above all is to foster this generation’s involvement and awareness of the reality of global conflict.”
To get involved in Model United Nations Club, attend one of their lunch meetings held every Monday in room E1.
