Let's face it, other than for "developing skills" or "challenging yourself," MUN conferences are often more about that participation certificate, flaunting yourself in formals, and meeting new people. Speaking of the latter, here are a few categories of MUN-ers that you're likely to come across at every conference. 

The Know-it-all Fact-book

Getting your hands on the Best Delegate Award is probably one of your main goals for a conference, but this guy has made it his life goal. Does his shelf of awards, gathering dust, mean he should just try to relax for one committee session? No. Not only does he seem to know every past UN resolution and every fact about his country by heart, but he also knows everything about yours. Make one slip in your speech and he'll be waiting to pounce like a hungry bulldog, point out your mistake, tear you down, and make you look bad in front of the chair. Know it all – 1. You – 0.

The Fashionistas

MUNs give you the opportunity to wear three/four different formal outfits, a traditional outfit for one day, and something sparkly for the gala night and dinner. The fashionistas know this better than anyone else - dapper suits, expensive tie pins, designer blouses and lots of makeup mean they're more geared up for selfies than giving opening speeches. Lucky for them, something called "The Best Dressed Delegate Award" actually exists. I was struggling to fit my laptop and folders into my bag the night before an MUN whereas one of my fellow delegates was trying to figure out how she'd carry a red gown to change into later for the gala night. Mmm-hmm. 

The Flirt

No, it is not alright to pass a note to the delegate of Japan asking for her phone number during a moderated caucus. It is also not okay to raise a Point of Personal Privilege and ask the Chair, "Can we please have the AC turned on? 'Cause it's hot," with a wink. Flirting won't help you strengthen ties with allies or get you closer to any of the awards, honourable delegate. 

The Social Butterfly

The heart of the committee - the social butterfly - will interact with everyone, send friend requests, invite you for selfies and be the first to open a group chat for the whole committee. Thanks to this person, you'll find yourself attending reunions with your committee members 6 months (or years) later.

The Lost Soul

Look closely past the eager, chatty delegates and you'll find a quiet kid sitting in the corner and minding his/her own business. These delegates barely know the full name of their assigned country, nor do they care about it. They're just here because they paid 2000 Taka for a participation certificate or their friends dragged them here for the weekend. 

At the end of day, these are the individuals that will help make your MUN experience a memorable one. To be honest, you're more likely to cherish memories about that friend you made, or that flawless photo of you in a suit more than some certificate anyway.