For beginners: When will I come to feel like I belong to IUMUN?

Belonging is such a beautiful thing. And not belonging… well, it just feels bad. Whether we are aware of it or not, each of us wants to be connected to something. A person, a place, a community. Some of us are open about it but, some of us carry that feeling quietly, deep inside. I’m not trying to be dramatic here, my dear friends, but aren’t we made of feelings after all? Sure, we’re not made of glass, but we’re not carrying a stone inside our chest either.

That’s why I want to talk a little bit about what it feels like to open a new chapter in life, the uncertainty of what it may bring, and the creeping excitement hidden in that uncertainty.

Being a “participant” in something is one thing. But becoming a “part” of it? That’s something entirely different. And that’s a difference we need to understand.

If you already feel like you are a part of IUMUN, then I’m sure you have understood everything I’ve said so far and you will understand what I’ll say next.

But I’d like to speak to the ones who are still wondering, “What kind of summer is waiting for me this year?”

Yes, you. Hello there.

So, where was I? Ah, yes. New chapters. You’re about to start one. And right now, you have no idea who you are going to work with, laugh with, or share stress with. No idea how many people you will meet. Not yet.

The people you thought were so annoying on the first day, they will be the ones you hug with tears in your eyes on the last day. You will find friendships you didn’t see coming. That moment you step into the building and think, “Will they accept me?” before you know it, you’ll be right in the middle of something that feels like a huge, warm family. Maybe you will even fall in love with someone, don't ask me how I know. You will have fun, you will be stressed. But in the end, IT DOESN’T EVEN MATTER ♪♫…(ok...sorry...my inner linkin park fan kicked in..)

But in the end, when you look around and see those people smiling with you through your sweet exhaustion, you will realize it was all worth it.

And if you want it, really want it, you will not just be a “participant” in IUMUN. You’ll always be a part of it.

But when?

When will I come to feel like I’m not just a participant, but truly a part of this family?

You won’t “realize” it.

That’s all it is.

A leap of faith.

See you this summer.

Your friendly neighbourhood journalist.

Written by

Mert Lakot