For many students politics and government seems a more adult activity, something that demands experience and maturity to understand. Though this should not be something to dissuade students from engaging with their local, state, and the national government. Many factors contribute to what is to become of the modern political movements, and being apart of it can insure your thoughts can be applied to it.

For many seniors in high school, who have reached the age of 18, can vote in elections. Knowing how to vote, about the candidates you might vote for, and the current issues being voted over in your area are extremely potent. It’s necessary for youth to realize how politics influences their daily lives, from implementing a no parking lane in their street, to the extremes of raising the age requirements in order to drive.

Further, turnout is the biggest issue in representing political spectrum. Many who chose not to vote, either by not wanting to or believing their votes matter can drastically affect the nature of future policies. For example, if a majority of seniors who choose to vote in a local election in the Park Cities can become a surmountable influence in providing its winner. The order of power within the local, state or national level can be severely altered if people of different generations, beliefs, and backgrounds. Choosing not to vote might result in the election of someone who might not share your views, and in turn can potentially make your life difficult.

While voting is certainly the most important means of have your voice heard, engaging in public gatherings and communicating with your representatives is also wise. Speaking at town halls, council meetings, and party gatherings allow others who may or may not share your thoughts to properly engage in debate. Also, doing so can help public officials know a wider variety of people are feeling on a particular matter of conversation, whether it be a new bill or a social program affecting the area.

Another issue for many Americans, whether you’re voting for President or voting on a local ballot initiative, knowing the facts on the issue at hand helps you make a well informed decision. Student’s in particular should open up and look over several different points of view within media. While by no means should it be necessary to read every online article, watch every television interview, and review every opinion of a candidate,doing at least some independent research on a particular topic can ensure you that you’re making a thought out choice while casting your ballot at your local polling station.