Engaging in Global Dialogue - Representing Austria at NMUN
- By Julia Gröbl, University of Innsbruck student at the University of New Orleans (UNO)
“Where you stand depends on where you sit.”
This quote by Rufus Miles perfectly encapsulates my experience participating in the Model United Nations (MUN) class at the University of New Orleans in Spring 2025. As an exchange student from Innsbruck, Austria, majoring in International Economics and Business, I brought a different lens to international diplomacy - one shaped not by political science or history, but by economic reasoning and a cross-border European perspective.
Participating in the MUN class in 2025 was an incredibly enriching and memorable experience with the highlight of the semester being our delegation’s journey to New York City for the National Model United Nations (NMUN) conference, where I had the honor of representing Austria in the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE).
One of the most meaningful parts of the trip was our visit to the Permanent Mission of Austria, where we had the opportunity to engage with Austrian diplomats and learn firsthand about their responsibilities within the UN system. This experience provided valuable insights into the practical side of diplomacy and strengthened the connection between my academic background and real-world international relations.
The undeniable highlight, however, was participating in the closing ceremony at the United Nations Headquarters. Standing in the very halls where global diplomacy unfolds was truly awe-inspiring - a moment that brought countless hours of preparation and public speaking in front of large international crowds to life and underscored the significance of international crowds to life and underscored the significance of international cooperation. It was a powerful reminder of the privilege and responsibility that comes with engaging in global dialogue.
The days in New York were long, full of speeches, negotiations, and committee work, but they were exceptionally rewarding. Outside of formal sessions, we explored the city together, shared numerous moments with fellow delegates from around the world, and built strong friendships and networks. Despite its intensity, the trip was unforgettable and filled with fun, and the connections made during that week are ones I will always cherish.
Reflecting on the experience, I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity. Being at the UN Headquarters, contributing to discussions of global significance, and working alongside such a diverse and passionate group of students was truly transformative. The MUN class at UNO, along with the NMUN trip, provided me with a deeper understanding of international cooperation and showed me how crucial interdisciplinary thinking is when addressing today’s global challenges.
For anyone considering this program - including students from non-political fields - I highly recommend it. The experience uniquely connects academic knowledge with real-world applications in a way few other programs can. I am deeply grateful for our President A’ishah Abdalah, Vice President Daniel Abadie, and Dr. Mokhiber for their exceptional guidance and unwavering support throughout this journey. Additionally, I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to UNO’s Austrian Marshall Plan Center for European Studies, especially Dr. Marc Landry for offering me the opportunity to be part of this invaluable experience