SCH Model UN and International Issues Class Visit the UN

For the next generation of leaders at SCH, the future of diplomacy is no longer just a concept. 

Last week, members of our International Issues class and the Model UN team traveled to Manhattan for an immersive, behind-the-scenes look at the United Nations Headquarters. By stepping inside the General Assembly and the Security Council and hearing from some of the voices at the table, students were able to see firsthand how world-changing decisions are made and witness the inner workings of global governance in action.

The group, led by Upper School teachers Sarah McDowell and Danielle Gross, embarked on a comprehensive guided tour of the complex. For many, the highlight was the proximity to active global governance.

Ziya DeVaeux ’27, Model UN leader, echoed the sentiment of being "part" of the process: "It was a super unique and special experience to actually go into the conference rooms and sit in the seats these delegates would be sitting in. It felt very surreal being able to actually see where these meetings happen—meetings that we frequently simulate during conferences."

Students also participated in an in-depth session focused on the mechanics of diplomacy, complex negotiation, and UN peacekeeping missions. This firsthand access to a current UN official left a lasting impression on the group.

"I was captivated by his peacekeeping effort, and this just inspired me to fight for peace," said Model UN leader Richard Li ’27, who was particularly impressed by the speaker's advice on how to negotiate when two parties are not on the same terms.

For several students, the trip was a professional inspiration. Scarlet Rose DiDonato '27, a leader of the SCH Model UN team who, just days later, participated in SCHMUNC Conference (set in 1956 on the Hungarian Revolution!), summed up the experience of walking the same halls as world leaders.

"As one of the leaders of my school’s Model UN team, it was definitely a surreal experience to see the General Assembly, the Security Council, and pass by real delegates who make an impact on the world today,” said DiDonato.

By engaging with the real-world environment of international governance, SCH students returned with a sharpened perspective on how negotiation and cooperation function on the world stage. Next up? Living SCH’s mission to effect positive change, day in and day out!