Your first MUN feels like a mix of excitement and panic. One minute you’re like, “This is going to be so fun,” and the next minute you’re thinking, “What if I say something wrong in front of everyone?” And if you secretly have one goal in mind—getting an award—don’t worry. That’s not “too ambitious.” It’s actually a great mindset, as long as you know what to focus on. Because here’s the truth: winning an award in MUN isn’t about being the loudest person in the room. It’s about being the delegate who consistently adds value to the committee.
1) Understand what awards are actually based on
Most MUN awards are judged through things like:
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consistency in participation
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quality of arguments (not just how often you speak)
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strong research and accurate country policy
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diplomacy and teamwork
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contributions to solutions and the resolution
So yes, speaking matters. But how you speak matters even more.
2) Learn the flow before you try to “stand out”
Many first-timers struggle not because they’re not smart, but because they don’t know the procedure.
Spend time understanding:
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motions and points
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moderated vs. unmoderated caucus
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voting procedure
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how speeches work
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what chairs expect
Once you know the flow, you’ll stop panicking and start playing strategically.
3) Research smart, not “too much”
You don’t need 40 pages of notes that you never use.
What you do need is:
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your country’s stance on the issue
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key data and statistics (a few strong ones are enough)
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what your country has done before (past actions)
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realistic solutions your country would support
Good research makes you sound confident, even when you’re nervous.
4) Speak with purpose, not just for attention
Some delegates speak a lot but say nothing new. Others speak less, but every speech makes people listen.
Aim for:
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short and clear speeches
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one strong point at a time
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a fact, example, or solution in every speech
It’s better to speak 3 times with impact than 10 times with filler.
5) Build alliances early
Awards often go to delegates who can influence the room, not just talk.
In unmoderated caucus, don’t wait for people to approach you. Be the one who starts the conversation.
A simple line works:
“Hi, I represent ___. Would you like to collaborate on a draft resolution?”
That one sentence can change your entire conference.
6) Be useful in the resolution process
If you contribute to drafting the resolution—writing clauses, giving ideas, structuring solutions—you become impossible to ignore.
Make sure your solutions are:
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specific
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realistic
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actionable
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well-structured
Final reminder
Aiming for an award in your first MUN is possible. But it takes strategy, consistency, and confidence you build step by step. If you’re looking for the right place to start your MUN journey and learn how to compete smart as a first-timer, GM MUN Jakarta 2026 is a great opportunity. Show up prepared, play strategically, and who knows—your first award might be closer than you think.
