Student Organizations

what is the Sam model united nations program?

The Sam Model United Nations (SMUN) Program is Sam Houston State University’s competitive Model United Nations delegation, supported by the Department of Political Science and the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS).

Through coursework, simulations, team training, and conference participation, students explore international diplomacy and global governance while developing practical skills in:

• Diplomatic negotiation and coalition-building
• Public speaking and professional communication
• International affairs and global governance
• Policy research and analysis
• Resolution writing
• Leadership and teamwork
• Problem-solving in a multicultural environment

Selected delegates will represent Sam Houston State University at the 2027 National Model United Nations – New York, Conference B (NMUN-NY), held March 29–April 2, 2027.

No previous Model United Nations experience is required.

who can apply?

The SMUN Program is open to all undergraduate students at Sam Houston State University who are in good academic standing.

Because the delegation has a limited number of positions, selection priority will generally be given in the following order:

1. Political Science majors and minors
2. Students in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS)
3. Undergraduate students from other SHSU colleges and academic programs

Students from all majors are encouraged to apply. Model United Nations benefits from participants with diverse academic backgrounds, skills, experiences, and perspectives.

A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred.

program expectations

Students selected for the 2026–2027 SMUN delegation will be expected to:

• Enroll in POLS 4081: Problems in Political Science – Diplomacy in Practice (Hybrid) in Spring 2027
• Attend required training sessions, team meetings, and simulations
• Complete assigned research and conference preparation
• Work collaboratively with other members of the SHSU delegation
• Assist with the Houston Area High School Model UN Conference or another designated SMUN service activity
• Meet applicable SHSU requirements for university-sponsored travel
• Represent Sam Houston State University professionally at all SMUN activities
• Be available for NMUN-New York Conference B, March 29–April 2, 2027, including any additional program-designated travel dates

program funding

To date, SHSU has been able to provide full funding for approved student travel expenses associated with participation in the SMUN program, including travel to the National Model United Nations Conference.

SHSU and the SMUN Program are committed to making this experiential-learning opportunity as accessible as possible to selected students.

Because program budgets and available funding vary from year to year, the specific expenses covered and level of financial support for the 2026–2027 academic year will depend on the approved annual budget and available funding.

Selected delegates will receive additional information regarding travel arrangements, covered expenses, and any participant responsibilities after the program budget is finalized.

how to apply

All applicants must complete and submit the 2026–2027 SMUN Student Delegate Application online through Microsoft Forms.

Microsoft Forms Application:
https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/kLCM7A1Suy

Application Deadline:
Friday, September 25, 2026, at 5:00 PM

Applications should be submitted through the online application form rather than by email.

application requirements

The online application includes:

1. Applicant and Academic Information

Students will provide basic information about their academic program, classification, GPA, and relevant coursework or experience.

2. Faculty Reference

Applicants must provide the contact information for one SHSU faculty member who can serve as a reference.

No recommendation letter is required.

Applicants should obtain permission from the faculty member before listing them as a reference. The SMUN Faculty Advisors may contact the faculty reference if additional information is needed during the selection process.

3. Short-Answer Questions

Applicants will respond to three short questions addressing:

• Their interest in participating in SMUN
• Teamwork and problem-solving
• Skills, experiences, interests, or perspectives they would bring to the delegation

4. Model UN Essay

Applicants will select one essay question and submit a response of no more than 500 words.

The essay is designed to evaluate the applicant’s ability to develop a clear argument, analyze an international issue, use relevant evidence or examples, and consider different perspectives.

Essay topics include:

• The United Nations and great-power competition
• U.S. foreign policy and multilateral diplomacy
• Climate change and international cooperation
• Artificial intelligence and global governance

Detailed essay prompts are provided in the online application.

selection process

Applications will be reviewed holistically by the SMUN Faculty Advisors.

Consideration may include:

• Academic preparation
• Interest in international affairs and diplomacy
• Quality of short-answer responses
• Analytical ability demonstrated in the Model UN essay
• Communication and teamwork potential
• Faculty reference
• Reliability and professionalism
• Commitment to the program
• Potential contribution to the SHSU delegation

Applicants may be contacted for additional information or invited to participate in a brief interview.

Up to 12 delegates are expected to be selected for the 2026–2027 team.

ready to represent shsu

Students interested in international affairs, diplomacy, negotiation, public speaking, or global issues are encouraged to apply—even if they have never participated in Model United Nations before.

Apply by Friday, September 25, 2026, at 5:00 PM.