By Audrey Conrad
For students interested in politics, international affairs, or learning more about what’s happening around the world, the Foreign Affairs Club (FAC) at Grand Rapids Community College offers an opportunity to explore interests outside the classroom.
To help students attend the 2026 American Model United Nations Conference (AMUN) in Chicago from Nov. 21-24, the FAC is hosting a fundraising event to raise money for travel costs through the sale of hot chocolate and baked goods.
On Monday, Oct. 5, and Tuesday, Oct. 6, the first events were hosted. The following week, on Oct. 12 and Oct. 13, the FAC is hosting the event where students can purchase hot chocolate and baked goods, and the funds will go directly toward the AMUN Conference. The event will take place on the fourth floor of Raleigh J. Finklestein Hall from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the dates listed above.
Simulating the United Nations, the Foreign Affairs Club holds weekly meetings. Each student is assigned a country and challenged to research the political status, history, and interests of that specific country to come up with solutions.
Preparing for the conference also allows students to practice skills such as teamwork, public speaking, and negotiation. Students interested in joining the FAC can contact the club adviser, Professor Keith St. Clair, or reach out through RaiderConnect to find meeting times and dates.
At the conference, students will be joined by college students from across the country. During the conference, the attendees work similarly to how diplomats work in the U.N. Participating in committees, giving speeches, and negotiating with other countries, students can speak about any global issue from climate change to peace and security.
Students can stop by the fundraiser events, grab a treat, and learn more about the Foreign Affairs Club.
