Touring the Wartburg Castle where Martin Luther translated the bible
Author: Lily Raccasi | Major: International Business | Semester: Fall 2023
After a tumultuous night of missed trains, delayed buses, and a flight that seemed to challenge the laws of punctuality, I found myself reflecting on the extraordinary week I had spent in Erfurt, Germany. During this time, I had the privilege of stepping into the shoes of a diplomat, representing the United Kingdom on the General Assembly’s council at the National Model United Nations (NMUN) Conference. My decision to be part of this program was driven by several compelling reasons. First, it was an opportunity to enhance my research, public speaking, communication, and negotiation skills – all essential in today’s competitive world. Second, I sought to improve my leadership abilities, which are vital for my academic and professional goals. Lastly, in an increasingly globalized world, I recognized the immense value of learning to collaborate effectively with diverse teams.
As it turns out, this program has proven to be truly invaluable. Given my pursuit as an International Business Supply Chain Management major, it afforded me the opportunity to cultivate diplomatic negotiation skills and understand international policies. This better prepares me for managing complex supplier relations across borders and adeptly navigate regulatory environments. The expanded professional network I gained through this program led to lifelong connections and opened doors to future collaborations and career opportunities.
The NMUN class itself was nothing short of excellent. It equipped me with the ability to work under pressure, collaborate effectively with students from diverse backgrounds, and lead group initiatives. Moreover, I learned to take on leadership roles early on, handle disagreements constructively, and delegate effectively. Most importantly, the program allowed me to practice my public speaking, negotiating, and diplomacy at the conference attended by over 400 students from 40 universities across 12 countries. To top it all off, the University of Arkansas achieved the prestigious distinction of Outstanding Delegation, securing the first-place position for the two countries we represented, Bolivia and the United Kingdom.
Beyond the classroom, my experiences in Germany were educational. One of the most heartening aspects of my experience was the cultural tours. Visiting the Buchenwald concentration camp memorial site was a sad reminder of the depths of human cruelty. Standing there, where countless suffered and perished due to hatred, opened my eyes to the darker aspects of our history. In a similar fashion, the Point Alpha tour illustrated the desperation of those escaping East Germany during the Cold War and provided a stark insight into the human yearning for freedom and the lengths people will go to achieve it. These tours were not just educational; they were emotional experiences that highlighted the need for empathy and understanding in modern day and in foreign relations and diplomacy. The weight of history felt in these places deepened my understanding of German history—one that textbooks alone could never convey.
Having the conference in Germany, along with these tours, made the whole experience even better. It wasn’t about going through the mentions; it was about really feeling and understanding the history and culture of the place. Meeting people from all over the world at the conference was amazing. Talking to them and learning about their lives and cultures helped me see the world in so many different ways. It was a reminder that every country and culture has its own story and that understanding these stories is key in working together.
For future students looking to looking to develop their public speaking, communication, research, and writing skills, I highly recommend this program. Use this opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself—it’s an excellent chance for personal growth. Prepare for Germany’s myriad of public transportation systems, always have enough cash on hand, and do your shopping early as stores close on Sundays.
My journey to Erfurt, Germany proved to be an experience that enriched me academically, culturally, and personally. It not only advanced my skills in diplomacy and leadership but also provided a unique opportunity to connect with people from around the world. Although the program challenged me in ways I had never imagined, it’s an experience I’ll certainly treasure for a lifetime.