Diplomacy takes center stage for PCC students at model European Union
Story by James Hill. Photos by Robert Asaadi and Ric Getter.
Who said diplomacy is dead?
Four Portland Community College students participated in the West Coast Model European Union (WCMEU) for the third consecutive year this month in Seattle, Washington. Hosted by the Center for European Studies at the University of Washington and co-funded by the European Union, this prestigious event brought together students from colleges and universities across North America for a high-level simulation of a European Council summit.
Team PCC: From left, Kevin Le, Eleanor Song, Jacob Weiner, Robert Asaadi and Laith Dababneh.
PCC sent two teams to compete, representing Croatia and the Netherlands. Throughout the event, students played the roles of EU member state representatives, drafting position papers and resolutions, delivering speeches, and engaging in both formal and informal debates. Faculty Advisor Robert Asaadi provided guidance and support to the PCC delegation throughout the experience.
Invaluable Experience Enhances Skills
Asaadi said that this hands-on learning opportunity will sharpen the students’ abilities in negotiation, time management, and critical thinking, preparing them for success in any professional setting.
“The students performed exceptionally well, developing key skills in teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership,” said Asaadi. “By working together and managing varying perspectives, they learned to collaborate effectively toward common goals. The opportunity to practice presentation and communication skills, along with leading discussions under pressure, will be invaluable in their future academic and career endeavors.”
The 2025 WCMEU focused on critical global topics, including artificial intelligence, disinformation, climate change, and rural development. Students had the opportunity to engage in discussions on these pressing issues, broadening their understanding of global policy and European governance.
The keynote address was delivered by Saša Jenko, Head of Sector for Health Reforms at the European Commission and the 2025 EU Fellow at the University of Washington. Jenko’s speech examined the role of government regulation in the development of artificial intelligence, a rapidly growing issue in global politics.
Robert Asaadi.
Students Rave About Opportunity
For PCC students, the conference not only provided experience, but it fostered professional development and networking opportunities. They engaged with peers and faculty from across the U.S. and Canada, forging connections that will support their academic and professional journeys.
Laith Dababneh, a first-year international student from Amman, Jordan, is pursuing a double major in Economics and Political Science with a minor in Accounting at PCC. He described the WCMEU as an opportunity to explore the world of debate in a university setting.
“It was less formal than anticipated, but it allowed me to gain critical diplomatic skills,” said Dababneh. “I strive to become a diplomat in Jordan, hoping to eventually serve as the Minister of Foreign Affairs. Professor Asaadi’s mentorship was invaluable. He guided me in the right direction, and I think my performance at the conference reflected his excellent support.”
Dababneh also emphasized that PCC is more than just an institution of learning for him. “PCC is a place where I am thriving and where I can openly declare my ambitions in a judgment-free zone.”
A Future Poly Sci Professor
Eleanor Song, a second-year student from North Bethany who plans to graduate in June, participated in the event while earning credits to transfer. She found the conference to be an eye-opening experience.
“It was an incredible opportunity to discuss very real issues with people who have different perspectives,” said Song. “We debated climate initiatives, artificial intelligence, rural development, and disinformation regulation. The purpose of Model EU is to find compromises. Each delegate had different priorities, and we worked together to pass resolutions that everyone could agree on. It was a solid representation of how real-world diplomatic conferences operate.”
Song, who aspires to become a political science professor, praised PCC’s resources and support.
“Professor Asaadi was absolutely indispensable in this process,” she said. “He helped us prepare and even drove us to the conference. I also received a Dress for Success referral from PCC’s Career Services, which helped me prepare for both the WCMEU and my internship.”
She highlighted the breadth of opportunities available at PCC. “There are so many resources that people might not realize. Whether it’s career help or resource centers, PCC provides students with opportunities they might not otherwise have. WCMEU is just one example of that.”
Model EU Participation Important
Model EU is a key component of PCC’s Political Science winter term curriculum, offering students hands-on experience in diplomacy and international relations. Those interested in participating in future conferences can learn more through the Model EU program website or by contacting Asaadi at robert.asaadi@pcc.edu.