IDIA has developed a suit of programming – through the lens of Model UN and Congress – that is both educational and fun. Our programs offer students the opportunity to learn about global and domestic affairs by representing elected officials at various levels of government, or by better developing their own positions on important issues. By determining how best to represent officials, participants will develop an in-depth understanding about issues that quite often cannot be found on the front page of newspapers, or in a Twitter feed. Preparation encourages critical thinking and the development of a broad worldview. Students are challenged to leave their traditional comfort zone, and reinforce their education about important topics with persuasive public speaking, conflict resolution, collaboration, and deliberation.