We frequently talk about how the Thacher bubble cuts us off from what’s happening in the rest of the world.  The thickness of this bubble seems to increase during the latter part of each trimester, as the build-up of tests, projects, and exams causes us all to become even more inward looking.

Despite this tendency, nine Thacher students broke out of the bubble last weekend, taking part in the UCLA Model UN conference.  While most of the other “delegates” were taking a class at their respective schools to prepare for the conference, our students participated without the benefit of much preparation or guidance from a well-informed and experienced advisor.  Nonetheless, all nine reported that it was a very positive experience.  One junior said: “Though at first I didn’t know what was going on because I hadn’t had much time to prepare, nor was I familiar with the terminology being used within the committee, I quickly adapted to the situation.  I felt that Thacher classes prepare us well for this type of situation by making us think on the fly and adjust to new and ever-changing assignments.”

I was quite proud of the kids’ efforts.  They could have easily been intimidated by the level of knowledge and expertise of the other students, but instead they observed what was happening and found opportunities to participate and advance their own ideas.  Considering how busy they all were with end-of-term assessments, I was amazed by their ability and willingness to commit to two full days at UCLA representing Malaysia and debating some of the most urgent issues facing today’s world.