By Alexander Rodriguez, Editor-in-Chief
Students from Aquinas College participated in the Model Arab League conference on Feb. 12- 14 at the Eberhard Center on Grand Valley State University’s downtown campus.
Model Arab League is a diplomatic simulation that allows for students to represent countries from the Arab world while engaging in debates on current political, social and economic issues based on their assigned political interests. Aquinas college, with a larger group than most years, represented five different countries: Oman, Mauritania, Libya, Iraq and Egypt.
Libya delegates smile for a picture (From left to right: Joe Farage, Crismary Peña, Thomas Bearden, Logan Moncer, Benjamin Holloway, Nevaeh Porter)- Photo by Nevaeh Porter
“We did really well, we had a really good group with a lot of experience,” said graduate advisor Quinn Fjelstul. “There were a lot of new kids who also picked it up really well, fostering and building up a good community.”
Model Arab League gives students an opportunity to expand their understanding of international relationships and diplomacy. Aquinas has participated in the program for several years, engaging students with all levels of experience.
“One of the best parts was bouncing around between different committees with the newcomers taking charge,” senior Ryan Lozinski said. “With all of the preparation Durham gave us we were able to keep it all going with him having to step away super quickly.”
Veronica Sidor and Ryan Lozinski in action – Photo by Nevaeh Porter
“One challenging thing during Model Arab League was not having Doc [Dr. Roger Durham] with us at the conference,” Lozinski said. “We also had a lot of newcomers. The first day was rough, but once we got going things were smooth. Quinn [Fjelstul] really stepped up.”
For the newer students, the conference proved both challenging and rewarding.
“It was really cool. Honestly, it was stressful and a lot at first, but as it went on it became more comfortable,” junior Tristan DePooter said. “I think our preparation really helped, and you could see it in each of the Aquinas delegation that were there.”
Throughout the conference, students worked with their assigned partner and committee to draft accurate resolutions that portrayed their country while negotiating their policy stances with delegates from other colleges. Several Aquinas students received awards for their work in committee.
Group picture of entire Model Arab League – Photo by Nevaeh Porter
“Overall it was good. Aquinas has been involved in this program for a long time, so it’s always good to see our results,” Fjelstul said. “We have plenty of students and it’s a wonderful opportunity for growth and development in the international aspect of the world.”
The Saint 