This spring break, Patrick Mahoney is preparing to go to Ireland to participate in a Model UN conference.  At the  conference, students will act as representatives from different countries and discuss world problems and learn diplomacy. The students deliver speeches and work with their teams to come up with solutions for real world problems like human rights and climate change. They will also debate with other students, listen to other views, and practice working together.

Mahoney has always been interested in collaborating with students from different countries. He is excited to travel to a new place and experience different cultures with other points of view. He is also excited to see Ireland and learn more about the history and culture. “I am looking forward to working with students from other countries and comparing ideas with ours”, he said. 

Although he is excited, Mahoney admitted speaking comes with some nerves.  He knows it will be a challenge but he is also excited for the opportunity to grow. “I am worried about speaking to crowds, and I believe this will help me be more confident and a better speaker,” said Mahoney. 

Maggie Marcus, another Model UN student leader, said “Mahoney has been doing his best to prepare for this conference”.  She added that he is considerate, respectful, and can see different points of view. This will be a great learning experience for him. 

The conference will take several days and the students will have the chance to explore Irish culture during their stay. They will visit local sites and spend time learning about the country. When they return, Mahoney is optimistic that he will share with his classmates what he has learned and motivate other students to be involved in Model UN in the future. He hopes that this experience will help him grow as a student and as a leader.