R.S.O. Spotlight: Model UN

Model United Nations is a registered student organization that aims to simulate the political aspects of the United Nations in an entertaining and educational manner.

Members participate in activities that are similar to real intergovernmental conferences and learn skills such as negotiating, bargaining and communication.

"It's very educational but it's also a lot of fun. Everyone involved is very open-minded toward all types of discussion," said Ajla Memic, president. Memic, a senior double majoring in political science and resort and hospitality management, has been president of Model UN for two and a half years.

"I initially became involved with the club during my freshman year. After taking a global studies class I discovered an interest in politics," Memic said.

Model UN was created by members of the Naples Council of World Affairs in the middle of the 1990s. The late Sloane Robbins, for whom a conference scholarship is now named, played a major role. The organization has more than 20 active members.

The group will attend conferences on campus March 4 to 5. "The conferences are highly educational and include insightful political discussion," Memic said.

Meetings for the organization are held each week. Activities during weekly meetings include discussions about which conferences the organization should attend, future events they should hold on campus, and various political simulations.

"We also have weekly simulations that all members take part in. Each member represents a nation and its views on a specific topic. These simulations help to educate in a hands-on way," Memic said.

Model UN meets at 5 p.m., Mondays in Sugden Hall, room 240. Students can join by attending weekly meetings or by contacting Ajla Memic by e-mail at amemic@eagle.fgcu.