BCS on the Global Stage: Model UN in NYC

A group of 15 students headed to New York City to participate in the National High School Model United Nations, an annual conference where students step into the shoes of global leaders.

This year’s event was especially memorable, as students also had the opportunity to hear from Kamala Harris, former VP of the United States, who joined the conference to encourage and inspire the next generation of leaders. She shared that what gives her hope in today’s complex world is seeing students come together—“exchanging perspectives, building relationships, and learning.” Her message highlighted the importance of youth engagement, curiosity, and collaboration in building a more peaceful and informed future.

Curious about what it was really like, we asked one of the delegates, Form VI student Simona, to share their experience:

Q: How did you react to seeing Kamala Harris?

A: I was so excited! There were 2,000 people, and I never expected that someone that great would be coming to speak to us.

Q: What did you appreciate most about her presence?

A: I want to study international relations and diplomacy - so when she was asked how women succeed in that world, she had real life experience to answer with.

Q: Is there anything about her presentation that really stayed with you?

A: Yeah - she talked about how easy it is for some to choose politics over ethics and personal values. She strongly contested that approach to the work, and encouraged us to stay true to what we believe in. I found that so inspirational, because it’s what I want to do with my life.

Q: How did you like New York City?

A: I’ve never been to Times Square. It was so beautiful and impressive. We also went to a great restaurant at the top of a building overlooking the Rockefeller Centre. The owner is an Italian immigrant and the staff was from all over the world, so when they saw that we were an international group, we started talking. It was so nice to hear their stories - plus the food was incredible!