Imitate
Part of speech: verb
Definition: To follow as a model or a pattern; to make a copy, counterpart or semblance of. To copy.
Example sentence: Don't look at all at what other people are doing. Think of what you're doing as completely fresh because if you imitate you're dead.
Simulate
Part of speech: verb
Definition: To model, replicate, duplicate the behavior, appearance or properties of
Example sentence: Even though NASA tries to simulate launch, and we practice in simulators, it's not the same - it's not even close to the same.