When I look back on the journey that led me to medical school, it’s not just my passion for science or my commitment to healthcare that stands out. A significant influence on my success that garners many inquiries is my involvement in American Model United Nations (AMUN). This year, I served as the Vice President of the General Assembly, training the chairs in the simulations on Ballroom level.

At first glance, AMUN may seem worlds apart from the rigor of medical education, but in truth, the skills I developed through model UN—critical thinking, public speaking, diplomacy and teamwork—were instrumental in both my acceptance into medical school and my success in continued training.

Initially, my participation was driven by an interest in international relations, and I eventually realized how much it aligned with skills crucial to a future in medicine. The most important lesson I learned was how to communicate complex ideas clearly and persuasively. In medicine, the ability to explain complicated medical concepts to patients, peers or even non-specialists is essential. Whether it’s explaining a diagnosis to a patient or discussing a new treatment protocol with colleagues, clarity is key. AMUN sharpened my ability to articulate my thoughts under pressure and tailor my communication style to different audiences—a skill I use daily in medical school.

AMUN taught me the importance of collaboration. In the real world, medical professionals rarely work in isolation. Doctors, nurses, researchers and public health officials must collaborate across disciplines to provide the best care. I have fostered a deep understanding of teamwork and negotiation. In the conference setting, we often had to find common ground with people from different perspectives and backgrounds. Similarly, in medical training, I’ve found that learning how to work effectively with a diverse team is essential. Whether it’s a clinical case discussion, working on a research project, or learning to provide culturally competent care, the lessons from AMUN have been directly applicable.

The emphasis on research and preparation translated directly into my success in medical training. Each conference required meticulous research and an in-depth understanding of global issues, much like the in-depth studying required in medical school. The skills of gathering, analyzing and synthesizing information are key to both disciplines, and Model UN helped me develop a disciplined approach to learning. The structured yet fast-paced nature of AMUN taught me how to absorb large volumes of information, think critically about it and use it strategically in discussions—much like the approach needed for mastering medical texts and navigating complex patient cases.

Ultimately, joining AMUN staff fostered qualities like leadership, adaptability and resilience—traits that are essential in the demanding environment of medical school. The confidence and skills I gained in AMUN played a significant role in my acceptance into medical school, and they continue to serve me as I navigate my medical training.

My 15 years at American Model United Nations as a student and staff have helped me develop a toolkit of skills that go far beyond diplomacy—it prepared me for the collaborative, communicative and intellectually demanding world of medicine. I carry the lessons learned in AMUN with me, knowing that the ability to think critically, communicate effectively, and work well with others will make all the difference in my success as a physician.