As many students approach 18 years of age, many have yet to seize the opportunity to register to vote.
Some feel they lack the political knowledge adults have, while others believe their single vote won’t make a difference. However, this shared mindset leads to more than just one missed vote.
As Erin Wade, a writer for Forbes, notes: ‘For our government to represent our values and policy needs, young people need to make their voices heard at the ballot box.’ This is especially important because young voters represent nearly half of the population, making them a significant potential political force.”
A recent poll by TUFTS University estimates 57% of the youth (18-34) plan to vote in this year’s election, with an additional 15% “very likely.” While these numbers are encouraging, they should only incease as new opportunities pop up everyday for people to register.
Lilli Finnen, a senior who has already registered, believes that voting is essential for bringing about the changes she wants to see in her community
In a survey of 1000 Americans conducted by United Way of the National Capital Area, the biggest issues that were found to resonate with youth the most in 2024 include inflation/cost of living (57%), gun control (42%), and climate change (47%). If you feel passionately about any of these issues, voting allows you to have a direct say in shaping your future.
Considering that America is more polarized than ever, the phrase “every vote matters” couldn’t be more true. In fact, past elections have come down to a few votes. In 2009, Minnesota senator Al Franken won by just 312 votes. That’s less than the senior class of 2025.
Our generation brings incomparable diversity to the table. A 2020 TUFTS study estimated that by 2025, “50% of 14- to 24-year-olds will be people of color, an increase of 11 percentage points over two decades.” This diversity is vital in ensuring the election represents people of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.
Now more than ever, activism and social media have surged in reflecting the youth’s voice. Gen Z has consistently spoken up about social issues. Passionate, as many have described, is just one word to describe the youthful, energetic, and independent generation.
Looking at these numbers, it is clearly shown that Gen Z is NOT silent.
However despite our passion, many youth do not know how to register to vote.
According to Maryland Board of Elections, new voters can pre-register. Depending on your state, you can even register before you turn 18. You can register online, in person, or by mail, some states allowing you to vote in primary elections at 17.
You may even be asked when you’re getting your license. Whichever you decide is completely in your hands, but turning in your ballot should be a top priority.
In 2022 , a study done by Statista revealed only 49% of 18-24 year olds were registered. With the upcoming election shown to be extremely close, your vote can do much more than you think.
Anthony Gutierrez, Election Deputy Director of the Frederick Board of Elections emphasized this by stating, “We find that when a first-time voter participates in their first election, whether or not they have a positive or negative experience plays a large role in whether they will return for future elections.” To make your first experience meaningful, you could bring family members with you, or even encourage your friends to hit the polls with you.
No matter what students may think, the election does affect them.
One example of an election that directly affects students in real time is the Maryland Senate race. Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks is up against Larry Hogan, who has served two terms as a popular Republican governor in a majorly democratic state.
When it comes to education, the major difference between the two are their budgets.
Alsobrooks has been boasted for her focus on education, she took on the construction of 10 new schools in Prince George’s County, this was accomolished with an innovative private partnership model that will deliver schools 10 years faster and at a cost of 15-20% less without the need to raise new taxes. View Alsobrooks education platform here.
Hogan has also been boasted on his education value, too. One notable action he has taken toward better action was supporting programs like P-TECH, which allow high school students to earn a degree while gaining career training. View Hogan’s education platform here.
So whatever excuse you’ve heard-or created- has been debunked. As Gutierrez pointed out,
This should only strengthen your will to exercise your right to vote, as many aren’t given the same opportunity across the world.
In the end, your vote is more than a number—it’s a tool for shaping the future. Don’t let this chance slip by. Get informed, register, and make your voice heard.
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