Lunch & Awards Ceremony

Next Wednesday, the Model UN delegation will host a Lunch & Awards Ceremony to recognize the generous support from our Guests of Honor; Dr. Whitson, Dr. Hopkins, Dr. Burk and Dr. Sharkey, as well as Dr. Zubzaretta and Mrs. Parker. I will post photos and comments from the lunch afterwards. Come back then to see who got what.

MODEL UN PRESENTATION

A great crowd of people came to listen to our delegation. Thank you all.

Seated from left to right: Kayla Mallett, Katie Bates, Joi Ellington, Jessica Cornish, Katie Orvin, Lisa Yaxis, Jennifer McGriff, Katie Damon, Ashley Wright.

Marisol Slater arrived a few minutes late (seated far left) but got right into the discussion.

Well the ladies were prepared, as always, and we had quite a crowd and we were happy to welcome Dr. Tamara Burk. The ladies took turn talking about their experiences, the challenges, the frustrations, the exhilaration of the Model UN. As each spoke, they became very animated, recalling all of their favorite moments, as well as all the work. Then they started talking about the fun and finally took questions from those present. Dr. Burk asked about, what else, Leadership. All the ladies took turn answering that question, but I think the moment was all Jessica Cornish's. She answered with feeling and exceptional depth about being able to have a voice, to try to make a difference, coming together and being, excuse the corny expression "all you can be". She spoke from the heart and I think everyone present was deeply moved by her speech. I know many of my students who attended talked about how much fun it was listening to the delegation. They also talked about the feelings they got from the delegation, that what they were saying wasn't just words, but true feelings. They were greatly impressed as to the knowledge and expertise of the Model UN delegation. I could not of have been prouder, rather like a 'mother hen' I was so pleased and proud of these young ladies. They have travelled wide and far, and have come back all the much more then when they left. Their accomplishment, their success is Columbia College's accomplishment and success. Thank you ladies!

The Model UN Experience - Katy Bates

Hey y'all!

So I should start by saying that my Model UN Experience was definitely interesting! As a part of the Economic and Social Council or ECOSOC, Kayla and I were able to see a different side of the UN. Instead of having only two issues, we had three: The Importance of Science and Technology, Violence against Women and Girls (perfect for a Columbia College lady), and Humanitarian Aid (perfect for a Somalian). After spending all of the first day arguing over which topic to be discussed first, it was clear that being a Diplomat is easier said than done. It was also interesting that the typical voting "blocks" did not always work out. It went from the AU, EU, etc., to random countries such as Madagascar, Denmark, and Indonesia working together. It was definitely interesting to see how people were able to agree and disagree on different issues. Our committee was also entertaining. People really like to take it seriously. We even had the Representative from Cuba show up with a camouflage jacket, fake scruffy beard, and a cigar (unlit, of course).

I will have to say that my favorite part was being in Chicago. It is definitely a great city (except for the wind part)! I loved walking the "Magnificent Mile" and eating with the "Locals". My favorite purchase turned out to be a $2.00 knit hat from Walgreen's that saved my ears!!! They are not kidding when they say, "The Windy City."

Overall, it was a great learning experience! Being a UN Delegate is harder than it looks. You really have to know everything about every country and every issue to really understand what it going on. I'll have to admit that I might have to stick to State and National politics for now! :)

Model UN from my perspective: Jennifer

Chicago was a blast for me and I hope to go back next year. It was my very first plane trip and I was terrified at first but I soon began to just have fun.

My Committee was the Fourth Committee which deals with Special Political and Decolonization. Our two topics dealt with restructuring the Peacekeeping forces and providing aid to Palestinian refugees. Unfortunately we spent so much time on the peacekeeping topic that we were not able to fully discuss the other one. However, our resolutions we ended up presenting to the General Assembly on the final day were well put together and we were very satisfied with the results. It was very interesting to be a foreign country much less Somalia (a country which I know almost nothing about). Being an American that has to think as someone from another country really put things into perspective for me. When I thought about making a decision or voting on an issue I had to stop myself from thinking like an ordinary American and instead think like a Somalian. It makes a person realize that many nations have problems but not everyone wants to solve them in their own way. One has to think about the cultural and political aspects of every single decision one makes when it comes to the United Nations.

Last Day: General Plenary & Leaving For Airport & Flight Delay

After a morning of working in the General Plenary, some of our delegates take a much needed break by eating lunch at a great place called the West Egg. Left to right: Katie Damon, Katie Bates, Lisa Yaxis and Katie Orvin.

Also at lunch was Emily Woodard and Marisol Slater.

In the afternoon, the delegates returned to the General Plenary. Five were seated in front, the rest stayed at the back to watch the proceedings. Seating back row: Ashley Wright, Joi Ellington, Mrs. Barbara Parker. Front Row: Katie Orvin, Lisa Yaxis.

These are the delegates that stayed in the front and voted in the General Plenary. From left to right: Emily Woodard, Marisol Slater, Katie Damon , Jennifer McGriff and Jessica Cornish.

Most of the schools attending the General Plenary stayed for this final part of the experience. There were literally hundreds of delegates in this huge set of suites.

General Plenary

In the hotel lobby waiting for our ride to the airport. Emily Woodard, Mrs. Parker, Joi Ellington, Jennifer McGriff and Kayla Mallett.
Outside, still waiting for our ride to the airport; Katie Damon, Katie Orvin, Katie Bates, Lisa Yaxis, Mrs. Parker and Emily Woodard (with her back to the camera).
Here we all are, still waiting!

Ashley Wright and Jessica Cornish wonder, where is the ride?

At the airport we had quite a delay. We were to leave at 8:55pm Chicago time. We left 11:55! Everyone was worried we wouldn't make it back home in time for Thanksgiving. Mrs. Parker wanted us to leave the hotel right after the closing ceremony to be on the safe side, because of all the traffic and people travelling this holiday season. So we got to the airport at 5:30 pm, and then the delays. As the hours ticked by, the delegates tried to pass the time the best they could. We finally arrived at 1:45 Charlotte time, and then had the 2 hours to get back to Columbia. But I couldn't get the minivan started, so we had to wait to get it charged by the staff in the parking lot. That took another half hour. So eventually everyone arrived at 4:30 am! But everyone is now safe and sound with their families, with memories, that I am sure, will last a lifetime!

Katie Orvin looking like everyone was feeling, Lisa and Emily reading.

Mrs. Parker was able to finish the WHOLE book (first page to the last page) while we waited!

More books and magazines came out of the bags.

Kayla reading while Joi tries to get a rest.

Jessica Cornish took full opportunity to get a real rest. Well everyone is now home, I hope they will take the time to write in this blog before we return to school.

DON'T FORGET: The Columbia College Delegation of the American Model UN will, on November 27th at 7pm on the second floor of the Student Union, present a dialogue with those present on their experiences of being the first delegation from Columbia College to attend this national conference and the ONLY university/college from S Carolina. Be sure to bring along your questions, and support your CC Sisters, who made this college very proud! We will represent ITALY next year, so come and find out how you can be part of this amazing experience!

As mentioned before, what can I say Columbia College? Our ladies were always dressed impeccably, were intelligent and articulate in their defense of Somalia and one of the best prepared delegation at the American Model UN National Conference. Looking at the hundreds of students attending, your CC Sisters did CC proud. They were strong and competent, had courage and commitment to their roles and everyday they showed the other delegations what competence is all about. Three cheers and many kudos. Thank you ladies for showing the Model UN what Columbia College education is all about!

Model UN Chicago: Emily

I must say that I didn't know what I was getting myself into when I started this course. When starting our committee meetings, I must say that I felt very overwhelmed, but after the first meeting I began to realize that I knew more than I thought I did. In the First Committee, we discussed nuclear weapons and bacteriological/toxin weapons. Representing Somalia was a task in itself, but I feel that we did a good job. We discussed many options for disarmament. It almost seem as though we didn't have enough time to discuss all of the issues at hand. I have thoroughly enjoyed myself meeting new people and learning more about international diplomacy.

Being in Chicago has also been a blast. I have gotten to ice skate in Millennium Park, visit the Navy Pier, see Chicago from the Sears Tower, and walk through the many shops throughout Chicago. Marisol and I also got to go to the Festival of Light, where we got to listen Sister Hazel and eat cheesecake. I have to admit that I miss South Carolina and its warm weather very much. Too bad we didn't get to see snow.... This trip was definitely worth while and I hope that I will be able to participate again!

NEARING THE END

Another view of Millenium Park

Dr Jones (me) arriving in Chicago

Jessica Cornish caucusing

View of Chicago Skyline

Arrival in Chicago

Waiting in Charlotte

Joi Ellington and Ashley Wright next to a super long limo.

The Sheraton Hotel at Night

Wouldn't you know, first time on a plane and Katie Orvin gets randomly 'picked' for a full search!

Left to Right: Ashley Wright, Emily Woodard and Marisol Slater


Today is the last day and the ladies are meeting, in the morning in their individual committees and then will meet all together in the General Assembly. Everything closes at 4pm and then we will be on our way to the airport. I will post more photos tomorrow but in the meantime, enjoy these photos.

Work & Dance.

Kayla Mallett Hard At Work

Jessica Cornish Writing Important Points to Remember

AFTER THE WORK................TIME TO DANCE!

Katie Bates and Lisa Yaxis

After an exhausting day, the American Model UN is hosting a dance for the delegates. Two of our own are attending.

Great Day in the G.A. Plenary Committee- Katie O. and Lisa Yaxis

Where do we even begin? The Conference and Chicago has been an experience of a lifetime, and the Columbia College delegation is most definitely illustrating leadership in action. Lisa and I serve on the General Assemby Plenary Committe which is addressing the topics of 1) Cooperation and 2) Counter-Terrosim Strategy. As an active member of the African Union, Somalia has developed a very strong alliance with our esteemed neighbor from Ethiopia. We strive to support and/or oppose resolutions that are not in the best interest of Somalia or any of the developing countries in the world. While we have faced some strong opposition, Lisa and I have firmly held our ground motioning to divide the question to remove an operative phrase that sought to condemn many measures Somalia, Ethiopia, and the Ugandan led AU forces have been forced to take in order to defend and hopefully achieve stability for our Somalians. After motioning we were asked to speak to the body regarding our concerns, and will proudly take credit, along with our esteemed colleagues from Argentina, for increasing "those opposed" from 16 to 38. Many were not in the position to actually vote down the resolution due to their own alliances; however, they did change their votes to abstentions after our motion and speech to the body. Many countries have become frustrated with Somalia's committment to communicating to the body Somalia's and much of Africa's concerns and reservations about resolutions that they are forcefully and hurriedly trying to push through without any debate from the body. To their dismany, we have continually received many comments such as "we love you Somalia" and "you are doing a great job, tell us about your women's college"; all of which we are proud to have received. Five resolutions have been passed on the second topic and one resolution on the first, but our work is far from over. We are eager to debate a resolution submitted by Hungary that we signed to help bring to the floor. Wish us luck!

The Conference has been intriging and rather consuming; however, we have enjoyed all that Chicago has to offer. Today we had lunch at the famous Portillo's, a hot dog and sandwich restaurant, and then went shopping down Michigan Avenue. Tiffany's was amazing and the Disney Store definitely brought out the child in us all. Based on our finances, however, we enjoyed actually "shopping" in the H&M and Nordstrom Rack (Nordstrom clearance store). Also, we have been intrigued by the many different questions we have received as to our native homes. Many delegates have been convinced we are Texans, while others seem to believe we may be from Ohio(?). More surprisingly, some delegates have even believed we are an international delegation. We have been asked whether we are from Australia or Great Britain as one delegate insisted she heard our British accent. When asking the Concierge's opinion on this matter, he quickly interrupted me to let me know that I was definitely Southern but that Lisa sounded more like a New Yorker. This has definitely been an experience. We cannot wait for tomorrow, not because of our trip home, but rather are excited about the seeing the results of our Convention.

What more could we ask for?!?!

After three full days of caucussing, speaking, and interacting, we should be tired by now, but we still remain as fired up as we were when we arrived! This is the best experience we could have asked for. The role playing is so real. The environment is very professional. We actually feel like we are in the real U.N. And to add to the experience, we have been the best group Chicago has yet to see. Our appearance has been spectacular everyday, and we are taking this opportunity very seriously. Honestly, we didn't plan on being as involved as we have been and we have suprised ourselves. We have had a lot to say. We even passed resolutions! Columbia College would be so proud of us. The girls are behind me, still discussing U.N. business as I am blogging. : )

Today, we went to the Cultural Museum and enjoyed strolling down Michigan Ave. We really enjoyed the sites! And, of course, we enjoyed shopping.

We know Dr. Jones is very proud of us, but we strongly believe she deserves all of the praise!!! She is the individual who got us here! We are extremely thankful for her hard-work and dedication. Nevertheless, we would like to thank Mrs. Parker for assisting us as well.

Halle Cornish, Joi Ellington, Ashley Wright, Jennifer McGriff, Kayla M.

Exhausting!

I didn't blog yesterday but for good reason. We were in committee from 830AM to 10PM with only two breaks for lunch and dinner. Debate is thorough and complicated and can also be extremely frustrating. It is clear that there are many ways of stalling and complicating the UN process and I think we've all come into contact with that. Today, even though we were given a break was probably the most exhausting and frustrating day of committee for me. We were finally able to pass our first resolutions and move to our second topic, which is when the problems began. Within minutes of our evening session it was clear that the topic of unilateral sanctions was delicate and potentially explosive. Delegates were clearly upset with each other and the AMUN rule 2.2 referring to diplomatic courtesy was brought up by the Chair at least 10 times. Amazingly, we passed another amendment that night and were in the process of another before a call was made to suspend session for the night in the interest of delegates' sanity. Somalia though perhaps a strong player in other committees was reminded of its economic dependence on the US often and was subsequently 'advised' on many courses of action and voting throughout the session and this was in fact true for a couple of other small countries I spoke with. Somalia certainly did not want any sort of veiled threat of economic sanction. Anyway, enough politics. All in all it has been one of the most eventful and one of the most tedious days. I learned thoroughly the reasoning behind the beliefs that UN suffers because it is unable to actually agree or put into place certain courses of action. Though this can be the case, I still fully believe that UN in many cases, facilitates programs and actions that greatly help the international community.

KUDOS To JOI ELLINGTON

Joi Ellington holding the resolution.

Joi In Action = caucusing

While all delegations, in all the committes, write and amend resolutions, very few actually get passed. Also, very few actually get to co-author a resolution. Out of 98 schools - one of our own CC Sister, Joi Ellington was a co-author of an amendment that passed "Least Developed Countries: Developing Productive Capacities." Joi is on the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development Committe, and what's more significant, she is on that committe alone. Well done Joi!

Chicago "The Windy City' Time Off; Let's Go Shopping

Millenium Park

Chicago Skyline & Part of Millenium Park

After lunch..Blogging (Blogger..Katie Damon)

Martin Luther King Jr at the Stained Glass Museum

Ashley Wright Thinking About What She Wants to Do

Skating at Millenium Park

Huge moving pictures at Millenium Park

Chicago At Night

Fun at the Navy Pier

The CC ladies had a few hours off today, but with shopping, museums, cultural centers and skating, what are we to do? Well we did just about everything. Wish you were here!

CC Model UN Delegation Does CC Proud

Jennifer McGriff (Top)
Marisol Slater (Bottom)

Caucusing is an integral part of diplomacy and especially so in the UN.

Emily Woodard and Katie Damon in Action
Ashley Wright and Jessica Cornish = Perfect Delegates

What can I say Columbia College? Our ladies are always dressed impeccably, are intelligent and articulate in their defense of Somalia and among some of the best delegations here. Looking at hundreds of students, your CC Sisters are doing CC proud. They are strong and competent, have courage and commitment to their roles and everyday they show the other delegations what competence is all about. Three cheers and many kudos. Thank you ladies for showing the Model UN what Columbia College education is all about!

Joi, "Halle," Ashley, Kayla, Jennifer

Chicago has been absolutely amazing! Even with all of the classroom preparation and research we've had since the beginning of the semester, we had no idea how much fun the AMUN Conference would be.

Prior to the beginning of the conference, we were concerned because everyone kind of fell into their confort zones and hung out with people they were more familiar with. We were afraid that the experience wouldn't reach its full potential if we never unified. However, once the conference began, we all found our common passion and we can't stop talking, laughing, and discussing everything from Model UN to our high school years and good times at Columbia College.

Everyone is so excited about their sessions. We've heard funny stories about representatives who draw cartoons to get their point across and representatives from Cuba who pretend to smoke cigars the whole time. We've heard disturbing stories about countries who don't use effective dialogue like we were taught at CC. Representing Somalia has helped us to see the world and world relations in a whole new light!

In September, we were just a classroom of students anxious about a trip to Chicago, now we've formed friendships, even sisterhoods!

Nuclear Weapons

Today is the first official day of committee meetings and we have started discussing nuclear disarmament, nuclear free zones, and making the NPT and IAEA more powerful. If you do not know what all that means, don’t worry, it took me quite a while to learn this myself. While it is somewhat overwhelming, I am learning so many interesting things about diplomacy. The United Nations is very different from a democratic congress and has taken some adjusting but being an Ambassador for Somalia is very rewarding. These next few days will be very interesting and look forward to tell everyone about Model UN.

2nd Day In Chicago- Katie D, Katy B, Katie O, and Lisa Yaxis

We have had a wonderful second day in Chicago so far. We began the morning by taking a taxi van to the Museum Campus to visit the Adler Planetarium and the Shedd Aquarium/Oceanarium. Katie O, Katy B, Lisa, and I went into the Planetarium while Ms. Parker chose to visit the Aquarium. The Planetarium was amazing. We went to the Night Sky Show where we learned many things about the sky over Chicago, and also learned other interesting facts such as that the North Star changes over the centuries and our ages and weights on each of the planets. Ms. Parker loved the Dolphin Show and really enjoyed the penguins and the sharks. Later, we took a taxi to the two story McDonalds where we rode the escalator to the second floor and enjoyed the view. Finally, we chose to walk down Michigan Avenue, also known as "Magnificient Mile", back to the Sheraton. While walking, we stopped in the many grand stores that line the "Mile" and learned that Chicago's Marshalls is much different than South Carolina's. The Gap is three stories and the Sports Authority is eight stories high!

The city is GORGEOUS and the people are so friendly. The Conference begins tonight at five and the lobby is already packed with other delegations. We are looking forward to meeting everyone and making a great impression! Thank you Columbia College, it is only day two and we can't wait to see what else is in store!

Today's The Day

Well we arrived. Saw quite a bit of Chicago. It's huge, clean and bustling. Beautiful at night. I think all the CC ladies attending the Model UN are going to have a blast. 98 schools attending, with 12 students in each..you do the math. And by the way, here in Chicago, boy do they like to eat! At both our meals (lunch and dinner) portions are huge, food is great. I must watch what I eat, could gain a few extra unwanted pounds!

Today is the day the ladies of Columbia College put on their business attire and will attend a Rules and Role Playing Overview before the Opening Plenary Session. Then at 7:30pm till 10 each committee will be meeting independently to discuss the agenda.

Opening the plenary will be Senator Robert Krueger, who served as a Member of Congress in the U S House of Representatives and later as US Senator from Texas. Senator Krueger also served as US Ambassador and Coordinator for Mexican Affairs, as US Ambassador to Burundi, and also US Ambassador to Botswana and Special Representative of the US Secretary of State to the 14 nations of the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

Well till tomorrow, Good Night.