Behind the Conference: Interview with HalcyonMUN Administrator Gabriella
Our team interviewed Administrator Gabriella Ragoonath at HalcyonMUN XII. Here’s what she had to share!
Q: As an Administrator, what does a typical day at HLISMUN look like for you?
A: Typically I make sure everything is in check for example collecting/giving lanyards to delegates, ensuring delegates have all the materials they need and answering any questions they have. During debates, I oversee discussions, help chairs maintain decorum, pass notes amongst the chairs and delegates and judge generally moderate the debate, keeping delegates on task. During voting procedure admins secure the doors and suspend note passing and count the votes.
Q: What’s the most challenging part of supervising debates and ensuring everything runs smoothly?
A: The biggest challenge is keeping the delegates on track throughout the conference. Some delegates struggle to remain focus so trying to keep them engaged in the discussion can be a challenge. Unexpected disruptions, like tech issues or procedural misunderstandings also cause difficulties as they need solutions quickly to keep everything running smoothly.
Q: What’s something about your role that people might not realize is important?
A: Admins help a lot with moderating and maintaining the conference, making sure that delegates remain professional and diplomatic.
The most memorable moment was listening to the debates because I thought that each delegate brought such an interesting and nuanced perspectives to urgent matters in our world and they were entertaining to watch.
Q: Have you ever had to deal with a particularly tricky situation, like a rogue note-passer or an enthusiastic delegate trying to escape through a locked door?
A: Yes, one delegate passed a note about another delegate that we had to discard of because it was a bit too mean. Also other delegates from different councils tried to enter our discussion hall during debates which caused distractions amongst some of the delegates.
Q: What’s the funniest or most unexpected thing you’ve seen during a conference?
A: The funniest part was definitely reading the gossip box because there were so funny remarks made about other delegates.
Q: What do you enjoy most about being part of HLISMUN?
A: My favorite part was the energy and excitement from both the delegates and chairs. Everyone was so excited and it was so fun having other school participate in the conferences.
Q: If you could participate in an MUN debate, which country would you represent and why?
A: Probably Switzerland because their neutral stance makes for interesting diplomatic choices. Plus, they have a strong influence in international relations, so they play a crucial behind-the-scenes role in global affairs.
Q: What’s your go-to snack or drink to power through a long conference day?
A: Definitely a lot of water because admins do a lot of walking surprisingly so keeping hydrated was important.
Q: If you had to describe your role in three words, what would they be?
A: Organized, adaptable, directing.
Q: What’s one piece of advice you’d give to new Administrators, or anyone interested in helping run an MUN conference?
A: Things will go wrong whether it’s a tech failure, a debate stalling, or a delegate misunderstanding rules but handle it with mindfully and with a leveled head.