Meet the Director General
Vincent Soriano is a sophomore studying Mathematics and Economics at Yale University and is the Director General of YMUN 2014. In close collaboration with the Secretary General, he had been overseeing the planning of entire conference over the past few months.
Vincent,
whose friends call him a replica of Brad Pitt, did not foresee at all his
current involvement in Model UN. Though Vincent holds the position of Director
General, he has been involved with model UN for only a year. As a freshman in
college seeking to improve his oratory skills and explore his interests in
international relations, Vincent decided to involve himself with model UN. It
did not take him long to realize his enthusiasm for discussing real-world
issues and searching for practical solutions in MUN. “It is not only
challenging, but also enjoyable,” he said, “and I want to bring that sense of
intellectual challenge and social fun to this year’s delegates.”
“The
success of a MUN conference can be measured in two ways – we want the delegates
to learn, and we want delegates to enjoy learning,” said Vincent, when ask what
he wanted to achieve in YMUN Korea 2014. He added, “On top of the amount of
participation delegates put into developing a plethora research, we hope to
that delegates develop the confidence and ability to think on their feet in
front of a crowd.”
For
Vincent, the other aspects of the conference are equally important in ensuring
the success of a delegate’s experience. He explained, “Balancing the elements of
education and fun would be most essential to ensure that delegates aspire to
attend more conferences in the future and continue broadening their experience
and knowledge of international relations.”
So
what should delegates do to have a meaningful and enriching experience? “It is
always important for one to say what’s on one’s mind. Saying something smart
and constructive despite the mistakes you may make or the embarrassment you may
feel because of that fault, is an important component that will push delegates
to the next level. It’s great practice!” said Vincent, seeming to have spoken
from experience. “I hope that delegates will take away a meaningful and
enriching experience from this conference, and remember YMUN Korea 2014 as a
stepping stone to the next level in for their MUN career.”
Aside
from global affairs, Vincent has varied interests. “When I was young, I wanted
to be an astronaut, now I want to go into business,” said Vincent when asked
about his past and current interests. “Eventually though, I want to start my
own charity targeted at improving education in the Philippines.” Vincent also
loves traveling and seeing the world, playing football, debating and pursuing
his interests in philosophy and investing.
by Danette Chun
by Danette Chun
