There is no political act more important than voting. This rings especially true for college students, who are likely to be the most affected by the policies that politicians enact in the years to come. However, for a myriad of reasons, young people do not tend to vote in high numbers.
On Campus Marketing, or OCM, is a nationwide online shop for college essentials, serving over 900 campuses nationwide and making shopping for college essentials easier and more affordable. OCM regularly gives back at the campus, regional, and national levels, providing scholarships, supportive initiatives, and response to campus emergencies. They provide the top five reasons why voting is so important for college students.
Every Vote Counts
Too many people, especially students, don’t bother voting because they believe that their vote doesn’t matter. In reality, this couldn’t be further from the truth. As recent elections have shown, even a small handful of votes can make a huge difference. In addition to your individual vote mattering, the act of voting may inspire others within your social circle to do the same. Before you know it, your one vote has inspired hundreds of people on campus to vote, shares OCM.
Help Shape the Social Agenda
Chances are, you’re just finding your voice in college. A college is a place where people learn more about themselves, such as which social policies they are in support of and opposed to. Whether you already know where you stand on certain issues or need to do a bit of research to make up your mind, voting is one of the best ways you can try to make actionable change. Research the candidates running for office and find out their stance on important issues. Even if there is just one issue you are passionate about, voting for a candidate that shares your viewpoint can make a big difference in society.
Policies Will Affect You
Even if you know nothing about politics, there’s no denying the fact that the decisions made by the government will affect you in one way or another. Policies are especially likely to impact you as you get older and even while you’re still in college. For example, economic policies relate to the cost of higher education and student loans. Voting for a leader who promises to reduce the cost of college tuition and provide more expansive student loan policies could have a significant impact on your life at this very moment.
The College Vote is Important
According to OCM, college students in the United States are an extremely important demographic. This age group has the collective ability to change the course of elections, especially in swing states. Young voters between the age of 18 and 29 currently make up 21% of the eligible voting population in the U.S. This number rivals that of the baby boomer population. However, the problem is that college students traditionally vote in much smaller numbers than baby boomers. You can change this pattern by voting on election day and encouraging others to do the same. If the Generation Z and millennial voters were mobilized, they would represent a powerful political force.
It is the Only Way to Address Student Needs (made changes)
Lastly, OCM reminds young voters that the most influential way for students to have their voice heard is by voting. Politicians will focus more time on addressing the needs of students if students start voting. If Politicians know they have the support of the younger demographic, they will be more likely to make changes that positively impact you should they take office. By voting as a college student, you will play a role in electing the politician who wins. In turn, they will be more likely to support initiatives that are important to you and your demographic.
If you want to be part of the solution and have your voice heard, voting is a great way to inspire actionable change!
