The week before last I participated with the SMA team at the Model United Nations at the University of Oregon. My role as an diplomat from Ethiopia on the human rights committee was eye opening, as I had to discuss issues from the point of view of Ethiopia, a country where many humans rights violations occur. It was interesting hearing the debates and meeting other students, from schools all over Oregon. SMA's MUN program is unique in that as a school, we submit more resolutions, 5 a piece, than almost any other school that participates. A resolution is a proposition of actions to be taken to address an issue, from the point of view of ones country. For example, I wrote a resolution from Ethiopia's point of view discussing what restrictions should be placed on freedom of assembly.
This past Wednesday was Poverty Awareness Day at St. Mary's. For P.A.D., the school turns over control to the students, to run workshops on poverty related issues. This year, the theme was healthcare, and as a committee co-chair I helped plan, organize and run a workshop on Outside In. Outside In is a great organization working in Portland to help those who are having a hard time, and they have two amazing medical vans--basically doctors offices on wheels. One of these giant camper vans was able to come to SMA, and students who attended our workshop were able to tour the van, and learn about how Outside In operates, as well as about issues the homeless face in Portland.
For the next 7 weeks it's tests, tests, tests. I'm taking the SAT in two weeks, the AP Language and Composition test the week after, and the AP Government and AP US History tests the week after that! Then, after a few week break, it's the SAT Subject tests, Finals, and the ACT. Thankfully, most of the Junior class is going through the same process right now too, so we can prepare and study together! Don't be too concerned if you see a SMA Junior walking around bleary eyed and muttering random facts about the Cold War or the branches of government...we're not crazy, just prepping for our exams!
My favorite part about this time of year is seeing the Seniors wearing their college gear, and learning about where my Senior friends have decided to attend next year. The SMA class of 2014 is going some amazing places, and I'm so impressed by all they have achieved. I can't wait until next spring, when it's me receiving word about college acceptances!
