Interview with Suryn Kim (CS of UNHRC)

Suryn Kim is YMUN’s Committee Secretariat for the United Nations Human Rights Council. She is currently a junior, majoring in Political Science and International Relations at Yonsei University’s Underwood International College. She hopes that YMUN's delegates of this year will witness how international governance of the 21st century is implemented through the UN.

1.) Do you have any MUN experiences you’d like to share?
I participated in the Model United Nations of Seoul Summit in 2006. Like the delegates that will be participating in YMUN this year, I too was once a high school student, a novice at public speaking and MUN. But throughout the process as the delegate of Greece at the Human Rights Council, I gained confidence thanks to the encouragement and support of the chair and fellow delegates. I hope YMUN 2012 will also be a valuable learning experience for those who have the will to put in the time and effort into generating fruitful debate.

2.) What are some challenges you faced when participating in MUN?

The biggest challenge for me was the task of gathering up the nerve to speak in front of many people. For students who aren't used to situations that require them to speak, it may be difficult and daunting. But I want to encourage delegates that confidence is the key, and that there is no need to feel intimidated. The liberal and academic atmosphere of YMUN welcomes you to learn as much as possible and gain experience so that the delegates, as potential global leaders, can obtain experience in a cooperative setting.

3.) What aspect of MUN do you consider most valuable?

The most valuable aspect of MUN is that delegates are given an opportunity to thrive in an academically stimulating environment. The brightest and most passionate students flock to MUN to learn from each other and from the experience itself. The significance of MUN lies in the fact that it is an eye-opening and exciting experience for students that aspire to be the global leaders of the future.

4.) What are your top 3 tips for a successful YMUN experience?When preparing for YMUN please remember three words: Motivation, concentration, and relation. You have to be truly motivated to learn from the experience. MUN is not just another event to attend during winter break. Please keep in mind that students from all over the country participate, and only those with true determination will be able to gain from the experience. Concentration is important in terms of the time and effort you put into preparing for and actively participating in MUN. The more you are prepared, the better your performance will be. But most important of all is the relationship among delegates. A cooperative and mutually supportive relationship with your fellow peers will help in positively influencing each other. The relationship with the like-minded peers that you meet will go beyond this year's MUN. I strongly encourage delegates to approach this opportunity to meet new people with an open mind.

5.) Any last words for this year’s YMUN delegates?

I encourage all delegates to make the most of YMUN 2012 by being prepared and enjoying the learning experience at YMUN.

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