In the bustling halls of Sharon High School, a group of passionate students is changing the world – one resolution at a time. The Model United Nations (MUN) club, led by club leaders Rohith Raghavan and Omar Kannachankudy, is not just an after-school activity; it’s a center for future diplomats, policymakers, and responsible citizens. As they prepare for the prestigious Brown University Simulation of the United Nations (BUSUN) this weekend, these young delegates are ready to showcase their diplomatic skills on an international stage.

Every week, the sound of heated debate and intense discussion echoes from room 2307, the club’s forum room. In meetings, students transform into delegates representing countries from around the globe, tackling issues from climate change to world wars.

For club leader Rohith Raghavan, formally known as the secretary general, the journey began early in his high school career, at a freshman club fair. “I remember the day vividly,” he recalled. “In the corner, I saw a podium and people banging a gavel. I was interested in international relations and speeches, so I went to the stand to learn more about MUN.”

That curiosity led to a transformative experience. “At first, I was intimidated,” Raghavan, one of the longest-serving club leaders, admitted. “I was impressed by all the delegates. But now, MUN has taught me that people with all these different ideas and priorities can come together and solve massive world problems.”

The club’s crown jewel event is its annual participation in Brown University’s Simulation of the United Nations (BUSUN), a conference held in the prestigious Ivy League school that attracts attention nationwide and internationally.

“BUSUN is like organized chaos,” Raghavan said with a grin. “It’s an opportunity to challenge yourself, to grow personally. We spend over 15 hours in session—writing, talking, negotiating. It’s very taxing but incredibly rewarding to create policies that could solve world issues.”

The Sharon High MUN club has an exceptional award-winning record at BUSUN. “We tend to place very high,” Raghavan proudly stated. “Two years ago, our team won the Outstanding Delegation award, which is one of the honors given to a school at the conference. It was an incredible achievement that showcased the hard work and dedication of our entire team.”

Sharon also produces many individual delegate awards. Raghavan himself was awarded the Best Delegate honor, the highest individual award at BUSUN. “Winning Best Delegate was a humbling experience,” he reflected. “It’s a testament not just to my own efforts, but to the support and preparation I received from our club and advisors.” These recognitions aren’t just hardware for the school showcase; they represent the commitment of Sharon High School’s MUN team to excellence.

Participating in conferences like BUSUN offers many students a unique education and perspective on contemporary global issues. “You learn more than just policy,” Raghavan emphasized. “You learn about cultural and political values. It creates an understanding of different views and cultures, which in turn creates passion.”

While the MUN team is fierce in their competitive spirit, they are also focused on community and team building. Members form strong friendships, bonding over late-night research sessions and shared adventures.

“The club becomes family,” Raghavan explained. “We bond at conferences, during meals, and late into the night. It’s an opportunity to get close to friends and underclassmen alike.” The club advisor, Ms. Courtnay Malcolm, plays a crucial role in creating this family-like environment. “Ms. Malcolm is like an aunt to us,” Raghavan said affectionately. “She makes sure that we grow not just as students, but as people.”

As the club prepares for this year’s iteration of the BUSUN conference, they are confident and ready. Many veterans are finalizing their positions and polishing their skills, while new delegates are learning from their elder peers.

With their passion, knowledge, and dedication, there is no doubt that members of the Sharon Model UN club are on their way to making a real impact on the world and the global community.

BUSN at a Glance

• What: Brown University Simulation of the United Nations
• When: Nov. 8-10, 2024
• Where: Brown University, Providence, RI
• Who: High school students from across the country and internationally
• Why: To engage in diplomatic simulations and develop global awareness
• How to Join: Interested Sharon High students can attend MUN club meetings on Thursdays in room 2307