Our students are participating in the West Coast University Model, where 10 to 15 universities participate. Herrera said it was Blank's idea to start HSU's Model Arab League. Blank said he has extensively studied the Middle East and is a fluent Arabic speaker. He said he wanted to start a class that delved into Middle Eastern issues and provided an alternative learning experience of another society. Blank said the conference in Santa Rosa will feature addresses by diplomats representing Arab countries and committee meetings.
Participants get the chance to advance their countries' agendas.
Herrera said each school represents various nations of the Middle East and of North Africa. This year HSU represents Iraq and Qatar. Blank said representing Iraq gives HSU a chance to win awards. We're shooting for some of the bigger prizes this year. Last year we had several of our students win 'Outstanding Delegate' awards.