Commuting to EmpireMUNC

We are glad to invite our many New York City schools every year! We hold no requirement for delegations to stay in hotels for the duration of the conference. We do recommend that, if your delegation’s commute will be over an hour, that you do stay in Manhattan for the conference.

Please note that our policies of arriving on time, being in committee during sessions, our dress code, and all of our other policies regarding decorum and behavior still apply to commuting delegations. We will try our best to accommodate you but please be punctual and prompt, especially for registration.

A number of our Staff will also be commuting to EmpireMUNC from the outer boroughs or NJ, and our Travel Team also often commutes to conferences at Columbia, Fordham, Rutgers, etc. and here is our advice for commuting delegates!

Logistics and timing

  • Plan travel time with a buffer. Allow at least 30 minutes extra beyond scheduled transit times for delays when coming from outer boroughs or New Jersey.

  • Check real-time transit updates before leaving (subway, NJ Transit, PATH, bus). Use multiple apps or transit agency alerts.

  • If arriving by PATH/LIRR, expect additional walking or subway transfer to NYU’s campus; factor that into arrival time.

  • Aim to arrive to your committee rooms or registration 20-30 mins early.

Packing and preparedness

  • Bring a fully charged phone and a portable charger.

  • Pack snacks, water, and any meds in case of transit delays.

  • Dress in layers; subway stations and rooms can vary widely in temperature.

  • Carry a small bag for materials, notebooks, stationary, etc.

  • Pre-purchase tickets if necessary

  • ID, conference badge (once received), and any required information

Communication and team coordination

  • Share a detailed itinerary with your delegates

  • Maintain a delegation group chat or buddy system for delegates

  • Arrange meeting points with buffer time for late arrivals

Time management during the day

  • If you need to leave slightly early to catch a train, please let your Chairs know. This will be permitted in the final 15 minutes of the last committee session of each day. We will try to accommodate you within reason.

  • We expect delegates to be in their committees at the start of committee sessions, commuting will not be an exception to this policy. Please contact us if your entire delegation will be late.

Safety and final tips

  • Keep an eye on belongings in transit and on campus, especially during peak times.

  • Have small bills or a contactless payment method for transit and quick purchases.

  • If traveling late, choose routes and stations that are well-lit and staffed, perhaps a taxi may be your best option when late.

  • Please get adequate sleep! A well-rested delegate performs best, and it will allow you to be more alert during your commute and during the conference.