Model United Nations Travels to New York

January 21, 2026

By: Maddie Kollock ’27

The Columbia Model United Nations Conference brought together students from across the globe for several days of rigorous debate, collaboration, and immersion in global issues. Hosted on Columbia University’s beautiful, snowy campus, the conference offered students a learning experience that extended far beyond committee sessions. Delegates were challenged not only to represent their assigned countries with accuracy and diplomacy, but also to engage thoughtfully with peers whose perspectives, backgrounds, and ideas differed from their own.

Our trip began on Wednesday, January 14, with an evening departure from campus to New York City. Upon arrival, the city’s energy was immediate and unmistakable. Between navigating busy sidewalks, weaving through subway stations, and taking in the iconic skyline, the transition from school life to conference mode happened quickly. Before sessions officially began, we all got time to explore: walking through the neighborhoods surrounding Columbia, visiting landmarks, and assimilating to the constant motion that defines New York. These moments of exploration provided a valuable counterbalance to the intensity of the days that followed. 

Thursday night, committee sessions began. Long hours were spent debating policy, drafting resolutions, and negotiating alliances, all within the formal structure of parliamentary procedure. The atmosphere in the committee was demanding but extremely engaging. Discussions were driven by students who came very prepared, spoke with conviction, and listened with purpose. While the workload was substantial, with up to four two-hour conferences a day, the experience was ultimately energizing. Being surrounded by motivated, diverse students in an academic environment encouraged collaboration and critical thinking, like an amplification of life at Cate. This Columbia Model United Nations trip was such a powerful experience. We returned Sunday night with improved skills in diplomacy, public speaking, and global awareness, along with new friends from across the world.