The 28th MUNOL conference

Ein Feedback von Ben Tran aus der E.a, der das Commonwealth Australia vertreten hat:

"Dear honourable Mrs. Unger, dear highly esteemed Mrs. Haase

After spending the past week participating in the 28th MUNOL conference, many of us from the Ea language profile have come to realize just how unforgettable this experience has been. Looking back, I feel incredibly grateful for the time we shared as simulated delegates from all over the world. However, I would also like to be honest about my personal experience as a first-time delegate.

Despite the two very helpful preparation days we had before the conference provided by the wise and most admirable Q2 students, I often felt overwhelmed by the fast pace and intensity of the event. Having studied the Rules of Procedure in detail (I have taken some notes beforehand), I still found it surreal to apply them in real time, especially when debating on resolutions. Subsequently,  I was especially nervous delivering my opening speech – so much so that I experienced a small panic attack due to social anxiety. I had memorized every word, yet the reality of speaking in front of everyone was still daunting to say the least. I am thankful that no one seemed to notice though, and even more thankful for the kind and supportive environment that slowly helped me grow more confident, not only in regards to the English language, but also regarding my personality.

Over the course of the week, I came to admire so many interesting people – from the hardworking staff (who were punished for the greater good) and devoted chairs (who clearly share a strong bond! I will not elaborate further on that though😉) to the talented and most eloquent delegates, with notable mentions to the delegate of Afghanistan, the delegate of Brazil, the delegate of China, the delegate of Iran, the delegate of Mexico and the very youthful delegate of Syria from my lovely committee, who I will miss dearly. I was especially impressed during the General Assembly at the Handwerkskammer and Kolosseum, where the delegate of the United States used powerful rhetoric (rather manipulative rhetoric devices) to sway half the room to vote in favor of an amendment. It was a clear example of diplomacy in action.

I also became aware of how diverse English can be. While the eloquence of many delegates was inspiring, I sometimes struggled to understand those who spoke very quickly or had strong accents, especially from Romania and Hungary. However they seemed to not be intimidated whatsoever, reminding me that language reflects cultural identity – and that these differences are something to celebrate, not to be discouraged by, which is also why most of these delegates from these countries went on and achieved to be awarded best delegate in their respective committees and councils.

One of the most valuable aspects of MUNOL was the community it fostered. As someone who identifies as introverted, I was amazed by how many genuine connections I made – with delegates from my committee, as well as our wonderful erni-family. I especially enjoyed the committee evening and the opportunity to explore Indian cuisine together. These social gatherings created a sense of belonging I will never forget and an awesome atmosphere to just be in it. And of course,  I am really sure I will not forget any MUNOL parties. I am incredibly happy to share that I even have plans to meet up with some of my fellow delegates this summer in Hamburg to maintain the wonderful friendships we formed during the conference. And as a testament to how inspired and engaged we have become, the Ea Profile (aka. the best Profil between both linguistic profiles) has now been invited to attend another MUN conference in Poland this September – an amazing opportunity we are already excited about.

That said, I would like to raise a few concerns. At one point, I was told that the delegate of France left  a session in tears after a conflict with their chair, who‘s also the President of the General Assembly. It saddened me to see that no one followed up or offered support. While it may not be the chairs’ responsibility to attend to every emotional moment, I believe we all – as delegates, chairs, and staff – have a humanitarian duty to care for one another’s well-being. A simple gesture of empathy can go a long way. However I do understand that delegates my age, especially the one who was affected, could have easily given a call to the inspiring mental awareness team at MUNOL, since their posters were literally everywhere…even in the Delegates‘ booklet.

In terms of organising, there were some technical issues, but they are completely normal and the one who should be blamed is the city of Lübeck. The Wi-Fi connection, especially during resolution writing, often delayed our work. I even cursed one time at my phone because I could not finish a sentence, but oh well. Additionally, the lack of a shuttle to the Handwerkskammer on Thursday forced delegates to eat lunch in a rush, which kind of impacted the atmosphere of the afternoon sessions (maybe it just affected me). I also had a moment of fear after reading a Tagesschau report about a knife attack at Hamburg’s central station. Some of my committee friends arrived just six minutes after the incident – a chilling reminder of how unpredictable the world can be (and how, oddly, the delays of the Deutsche Bahn might have saved lives that day😶).

On a personal note, this experience taught me a lot about myself. I came in with the fear that I would not be good enough or that others would be far more experienced. And while I still have room to grow – especially in public speaking and social confidence – I have already made huge progress. I am proud to say that I am trying to be more socially approachable in the future and further improve my English skills.

Above all, MUNOL has shown me that being a diplomat is not about being the loudest in the room, but about fostering connection, building trust, and using words to find solutions rather than cause harm (something that some politicians should take as an example for their job). That wisdom resonated deeply within me… even if, I must say, it did not quite apply to the Crisis Committee, who decided to nuke the poor Aussies…

In the end, MUNOL reminded me that real learning and growth  does not only happen through textbooks and is definitely not defined by school. It happens through lived experience – through working with people, embracing the unknown, and realizing that not having all the answers is what makes dialogue and diplomacy possible in the first place. I hope future students will continue to have this opportunity. It is okay to feel unsure, because that uncertainty is what drives discussion, discovery, and ultimately, understanding.

I loved every moment I spent with my committee, and I would be honoured to participate again. Thank you for making this experience possible – it truly meant the world to me.

With utterly sincere gratitude, 

Ben Tran, Ea Sprachprofil"