Jessica Parillo ’18
EE Senior Opinions Editor
The weekend of March 18th – 20th was a busy one for the Trumbull Model UN club, who participated in EagleMUNC, a conference hosted by Boston College. Over the course of the weekend, twenty students were immersed in a forty hour simulation where they had to debate, write resolutions, and make alliances to solve global issues.
The conference featured a variety of committee topics, which ranged from climate change to terrorism. Students who participated in more advanced committees dealt with issues such as drones, espionage, and even corporate liability by recreating the board of directors for companies like Coca Cola and Disney.
The conference kick started with Opening Ceremonies, featuring an appearance by former astronaut Captain William Shepherd as a keynote speaker. After subsequent speeches from the directors of the conference, the banging of a gavel marked the start to an intense competition of nations.
Under the direction of club advisor Mr. Jack LaBarca and club President Briana Costantini, Trumbull students were prepared for a vigorous schedule comprised of five different committee sessions and late nights of research. Some delegates even found themselves called back into debate after midnight, as part of the crisis simulation.
The hard work of the Trumbull students paid off as rewards were received at the conclusion of the conference. Sophomore and Under Secretary General Stefano Mancini as well as Junior and Vice President Victoria Estacio won honorable mentions for their respective committees. Junior Isha Dalal won the Best Delegate Award for her role as Clyde C. Tuggle in the Coca Cola Board of Directors Committee.
“It felt amazing to be recognized for my hard work and for being able to represent Trumbull in such a big conference,” says Estacio. “Another highlight was having my resolution on education in conflict zones passed after so many hours of debate and research. It was rewarding to see the support from my fellow delegates.”
Overall, the conference was a success for the Trumbull team. Although they were unable to make it to additional overnight conferences due to travel restrictions, this final event was a great opportunity for them to display their hard work, and the experience was unforgettable.
“What I took away from this conference was a new sense of confidence,” Estacio continued. “At EagleMUNC I learned to trust my knowledge, research, and opinions to guide me when I speak. Even though it’s important to say the right thing, it’s even more important to speak with confidence and conviction in yourself.”
With this conference behind them, the club will now begin preparations for TMUNI, Trumbull’s own event hosted right here at THS this coming May.