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The Hidden Power of MUNs & Competitions: Do They Really Matter?

Updated: Apr 2

Introduction: More Than Just Certificates

You’ve probably heard that participating in Model United Nations (MUNs), essay competitions, and hackathons can boost your college application. But does simply attending these events give you an edge? Not really.

The truth is, top universities don’t just look at participation—they look at impact, leadership, and the skills you develop through these experiences. So, let’s break down how MUNs and competitions actually help you stand out and how to make them count.


1. MUNs: Not Just Diplomacy, But Critical Thinking & Communication

Many students join MUNs just to add them to their resumes—but admissions officers see right through that. The real value of MUNs lies in:

  • Critical Thinking & Research – You don’t just memorize country policies; you learn how to analyze global issues and think on your feet.

  • Public Speaking & Persuasion – You practice articulating complex ideas, which helps in college interviews and leadership roles.

  • Collaboration & Leadership – Whether as a delegate or a chairperson, MUNs teach you how to lead discussions and work in teams.


💡 How to Make It Count: Instead of just listing “MUN Participant” in your application, highlight specific contributions:

  • “Led negotiations on climate policy that won Best Delegate.”

  • “Trained junior delegates, improving debate quality in my school’s MUN club.”


2. Competitions: Depth Over Quantity

Many students believe that joining as many competitions as possible will impress colleges. But what matters more is depth and relevance to your interests.

  • Essay & Writing Competitions: Show your ability to think critically and express ideas clearly—great for students applying to humanities or social sciences.

  • STEM Olympiads & Hackathons: Prove your analytical and problem-solving skills—ideal for engineering, tech, or research-focused students.

  • Debates & Entrepreneurship Challenges: Build leadership, argumentation, and business acumen—helpful for law, business, or public policy aspirants.


💡 How to Make It Count: Instead of listing every competition you’ve attended, highlight:

  • Why you joined (Did it align with your academic goals?)

  • What you learned (Did it help shape your career interests?)

  • Results & Impact (Did you win? Lead a team? Implement your idea in real life?)

Example: “Won 1st place in XYZ Hackathon for designing an AI-based study tool, which later got implemented in my school’s learning program.”


3. The Admissions Perspective: Show, Don’t Tell

Colleges are not impressed by participation alone—they want to see:

  • Initiative: Did you start a debate club after your MUN experience?

  • Growth: Did a competition spark a research project or an internship?

  • Impact: Did your experience lead to tangible change in your community?

💡 Pro Tip: If you have multiple competitions on your resume, tie them into a bigger story in your application essays.


Final Thoughts: Do They Matter? Only If You Make Them Matter.

MUNs and competitions aren’t just boxes to check off—they’re opportunities to gain real skills, showcase leadership, and build a strong profile.

So don’t just participate for the sake of it—engage, reflect, and use these experiences to shape your story. That’s what truly makes an application stand out.

Need help crafting your college application strategy? Let’s get started.


 
 
 

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