FAQs
What is the difference between BMUN and UCBMUN (UC Berkeley Model United Nations)?
BMUN is dedicated to running the annual Berkeley Model UN Conference and works mostly with high school students involved with Model UN. UCBMUN is a competitive organization that competes and participates at various conferences. To find out more about UCBMUN, you can visit here.
What is the time commitment?
During the fall semester, we meet only once a every other week or so. However, the time commitment increases during the spring semester to about two meetings a week up until the conference in March. Participation during the weekend of the conference is mandatory. There are minimal activities after the conference.
I’m a “blank” major, is it alright if I apply to BMUN?
Absolutely, any major is welcome! BMUN has members majoring in a variety of areas, from biochem to legal studies. We strive for a diverse membership and encourage any major to apply.
Is it okay that I don’t have MUN experience?
Yes. In fact, over one third of the BMUN Secretariat has no prior high school MUN experience. We look for those with intelligence, enthusiasm, curiosity, and competence.
What else does BMUN do besides the BMUN conference?
Throughout the year we have social activities such as barbeques and retreats. We also have an outreach program where we help local high schools start up their own MUN program. In the fall, we host the Delegate Workshop.
What is the Delegate Workshop?
The Delegate Workshop is an intermediate conference for first-time high school students who have never done MUN before. It is an outreach program to introduce BMUN to the local community.
How do I join?
Applications are available during Welcome Week and the first two weeks of school at the BMUN table on Sproul Plaza between 9:00 AM to 4:00 P.M. Alternatively, you can fill out an application on www.bmun.net and submit it. The deadline for submission in hard copy is 4:00 PM, September 7, 2007, and online by midnight, September 9, 2007.
What happens after I apply?
After your application will be reviewed by the BMUN Secretariat. you will be contacted by phone to set up an interview. You will then go through a twenty-minute formal interview and be notified of the results within a few days.
What are the interviews like?
A typical interview will last about twenty minutes. You will be asked anywhere from ten to fifteen questions by a panel of BMUN members. The questions can range from international issues to personality fit. Candidates are expected to be in professional attires and check in at least ten minutes prior to their interview times.
How should I prepare for the interview?
BMUN interviews are not designed to test specific skills, and no special preparation is necessary. We look for dedicated, fun students who have a deep appreciation for the workings of the United Nations. Keeping up with international news and learning about BMUN would be two good ways of preparing.
How selective is the application process?
Our members are the club’s greatest strength. In order to maintain strong group, we have a fairly tough interview process. On any given year, anywhere from 30 to 60% of UC Berkeley students who apply are chosen. Among 109 students who applied during last year’s fall semester, 81 interviewed and 24 were invited to join BMUN.