Taking part in a Model United Nations conference is an ideal way to boost your extra-curricular activities in order to make your CV stand out when applying for universities, internships or jobs. We've put together a list of the top 10 CV building skills you will learn at OxfordMUN2020 to help you succeed later on in life.
1. Public speaking
The most obvious benefit of taking part in a MUN conference is to become more confident when speaking in public. Making a convincing argument in front of a room full of strangers, all the while adhering to the strict formalities of debate procedure, is one of the hardest forms of public speaking there is. If you build up your public speaking skills from a young age, you will be in a much better position to speak up for what you believe in later on in life.
2. Diplomacy
Diplomacy is an essential skill that is required in all walks of life. The ability to consider others' points of view and come to a creative and constructive decision is key to working in a team environment. By learning more about other cultures and perspectives, MUN will train you to be a more well-rounded and diplomatic conversationalist.
3. Critical thinking
Formulating resolutions and amendments requires delegates to think critically, overcome obstacles, and find solutions to some of the most challenging problems facing the world today. More than ever before, we are in need of young people who are capable of solving old problems with new ways of thinking in order to make the world a better place for future generations.
4. Confidence
Taking part in a MUN conference is a great way to improve your confidence. At OxfordMUN 2020, confidence in your own abilities as a debater and diplomat is essential. At the same time, confidence in social situations is also important, as you will meet lots of new people from all walks of life. This can be a great way to improve your self-confidence and your ability to make meaningful connections with new people.
5. Empathy
At a MUN conference, sometimes you are required to argue in favour of a resolution or amendment that you do not believe in. However, when representing a country whose opinions differ from your own, you develop the valuable skill of empathy; this means that you are able to gain a deeper understanding of the opinions of others, and sympathise with their rationale. Being empathetic allows you to understand both sides of an argument, free from prejudice or judgement.
6. Compromise
Reaching productive and mutually beneficial solutions is key to engendering forwards progress. The ability to reach a compromise is one of the most essential skills searched for by employers, and the United Nations itself is founded on the very same principle.
7. Research
Taking part in a MUN conference requires delegates to be familiar with the process of researching, information gathering and fact checking. Researching is a widely transferable skill, and the techniques practised by delegates prior to the conference can easily be replicated in further education and employment.
8. Teamwork
Working in a team is a crucial part of a MUN conference. Whether it's forming a bloc, constructing a resolution or submitting an amendment, it is vital that delegates work together in order to achieve their desired outcome. By learning how to work with others and be a team player, delegates are developing a highly sought-after skill that will make them more attractive to employers further down the line.
9. Networking
Networking is an important part of any MUN conference. At OxfordMUN 2020, delegates are encouraged to interact with each other, form connections and friendships. This is a key skill that is required by many employers, as relationships between different organisations and individuals are crucial to the success of any business.
10. Persuasiveness
When representing a country at a MUN conference, delegates must be persuasive in order to convince other nations of their ideological position. This is most often achieved through powerful speeches and well-structured arguments. By practising this skill, delegates are learning to be influential speakers, which will be key to provoking change in their chosen field.