Frequently Asked Questions
In this section we try to give you all the information on the simulation that you need. However if you still have open questions, please contact us and we will send you an answer as fast as possible. Click on the questions below for the answers:
When will the simulation take place?
MES 2010 takes place from July 8th to 11th.
Can I choose/change my role at the simulation?
You will be assigned your role by the MES organizers. Since every role will have to be well prepared in advance, we ask you not to request changing your role during simulation. You will be able to inform us of the roles that you would most be interested in, and we will do our best to take that into consideration.
How can I prepare for my role?
After you have applied we will confirm your participation as soon as possible. With the confirmation we will also inform you of the role you have been allocated. Journalists will be assigned to one of the newspapers. Good preparation is the key to a successful performance in the simulation. This is why you should try to get familiar with the conflict and your country's position on the different aspects of the conflict. After your approval we will send you a Background guide to inform you about the topics of the simulation. We also will ask you to write a two page position paper regarding the topics. These will be handed out to each delegate. Furthermore we will send you a guide with the rules of procedure and the participants' manual. However, this should only be the starting point of your research. Remember: The better prepared you are, the more fun the simulation will be for everyone involved!
Will there be a dress code?
Yes, we will try to simulate the real world of diplomacy as authentically as possible. Therefore we ask you to dress in business attire.
Do I need any special skills to participate?
You should be able to speak English fluently enough to run a debate or to give a speech. Interest in politics and the Middle East in general would be helpful, but don't worry, you will receive particular information briefing you on your role. Aside from this, no previous experience is required.
Do I need a visa?
Palestinian students need a visa to enter the EU. Please make sure to apply for the visa as soon as possible, especially if you are from Palestine! If you have any questions concerning the visa please don't hesitate to contact us: mes2010@web.de
How does the application process work?
You will be able to apply until 21st May, 2010. You will either apply as a journalist or a delegate. If you apply as a delegate, you can optionally express your wish to be a head of delegation. Journalists will indicate their newspaper preference, delegates their country preferences. We will of course take your preferences into consideration when assigning you a role. We will accept 10 students from Israel, 10 from Palestine, 20 international students, as well as 10 students from Darmstadt. In your application we will ask you to write a short text on a topic which is related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. We will also give you the opportunity to give us some additional information about yourself and your motivation to take part in the simulation.
Additionally you have to write a two page position paper in which you explain your position with regard to the topic. It should not reflect your personal opinion but your interest as a delegate.
How do I get to Darmstadt?
For detailed travel information please click here. If you have any further questions please don't hesitate to contact us. Our email is: mes2010@web.de
Where will I be sleeping?
You will be provided with accommodation at the youth hostel in Darmstadt. You will be sharing rooms with other participants. We will make sure that female and male participants are separate, but it is very likely that you will share your room with somebody from another country, so make sure to brush up on your English conversational skills beforehand! Breakfast will be provided at the hostel every morning. For pictures, go to the youth hostel's website. [click here]
Will I sleep at the hotel even if I live in Darmstadt?
We will not give students from Darmstadt accommodation, in order to offer Darmstadt residents the reduced fee.
Are there any activities besides the formal meetings?
Sure there will be! We will have an opening ceremony, a gala dinner night, a closing ceremony and some other events. For further information, check the detailed schedule that will be provided.
Is there a participation fee and what does it cover?
There is a participation fee of €100,-- for foreign students. This fee includes everything you need to spend during the three days of the simulation. It covers accommodation, food, drinks (both alcoholic and non alcoholic), traveling costs within Darmstadt and the materials you need during the sessions. For Darmstadt students the fee will be €50,--. It will cover all the above except for accommodation and public transportation.
Are there any scholarships available?
The fee of €100,-- covers all you need during the simulation. Nevertheless, if you feel that your financial situation does not allow you to pay this fee, please contact us as we may have a limited amount of scholarships available for students in difficult financial situations. You can also ask your own university for support regarding the travelling costs. We are currently in contact with foundations to achieve funding for students participating in MES 2010.