All of the political talk this week has got us thinking in Career Services. How many of you actually went to the polls on Tuesday to vote?? As a U.S. citizen, you are privileged to have this opportunity to make your voice heard. Approximately 99% of college students are eligible to vote, if just age is taken into account. However, according to surveys, only about 25.5% of the student body is likely to vote.
Although it is too late for this past election, it is never too early to begin readying yourself to vote in the future. Two years from now, you will have another opportunity to raise your hand and speak out. With the Presidential election comes great responsibility. You will have a chance to stand with fellow American citizens to let the government know how you think your tax dollars should be spent – or who should be in control of the educational system to which you are a part of. It is a duty and privilege to have this opportunity. We hope you will embrace it with a mature attitude by educating yourself starting now so you will be able to make the best choice.
The following are a few tips to help you get started:
1. Know where you are eligible to vote. If you are a resident of Tuscaloosa Co. (meaning, do you pay a utility bill?) you have the right to vote in Tuscaloosa. If you live in a dorm, you are probably still registered in your hometown. You will be able to vote by absentee ballot.
More information on registering to vote can be found by visiting this site: http://www.declareyourself.com/
2. Study the candidates. By tracking the potential candidates now, you will build a foundation of knowledge on each issue and where each candidate stands. This will save you time in the future and allow you to speak intellectually with your friends. You also will have a better understanding of who you want to vote for come Election Day.
Click on the following link to read the Wikipedia’s view of the 2012 Election: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_presidential_election,_2012
3. Talk amongst your friends. It is a good idea to engage in friendly conversations regarding the elections, candidates, and views of others. Be careful, however, to not confuse yourself by speaking to too many people. This could swing your vote in a different direction without merit or deter you from voting at all.
4. Make a List. Think about what you hold valuable. Make a list of the views and topics you feel you should base your vote on. 1st – write out the topics with your opinion that you know you absolutely do not want to compromise. (Example: are you Pro-Life? Pro-Choice? Etc) 2nd – list the topics you are concerned about but don’t have a strong opinion one way or another. Then research each candidate and rate them according to the topics you listed. This will help you narrow down your selection and allow you to make a smart choice.
Regardless if you voted this past Tuesday or intend to vote on Election Day 2012, know you have a responsibility to be informed.
References:
1. http://letuyellowjacket.org/?p=94
2. CIRCLE (The Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement)
3. Photo: - www.campussolutionsinc.com
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