I personally just turned eighteen this summer, and I know of some other people who will be eighteen and able to vote in the next election. This is extremely important and a huge opportunity to have your voice heard and have a say in what is going on within our country. I would like to encourage other students to become politically aware of what is going on within our country so you can validly voice your opinions instead of maybe voting for someone because that is who your parents or friends are voting for. I think people should actually look at the issues that candidates are discussing whether that is through reading news articles, watching debates on television, or even attending a rally for a candidate nearby. Recently, I attended the Bernie Sanders rally at the Greensboro Coliseum, which overall was a great experience because I felt more aware of what is occurring in our country. He talked about the issues that I wasn’t aware of, so it made me feel less ignorant politically. Even if you think that you won’t be in favor of someone, you should still go to see them speak because you may change your mind, and it is important to consider all your choices. Last year, some students were also able to see Ben Carson, another candidate running for president in the 2016 election. Senior Kendall Hunt was able to attend; she states” It was a fun experience and helped me become more interested in the upcoming presidential election since I met one of the candidates”. Mr. Scarbro, Government and Politics teacher, states “The root of apathy is ignorance. Citizens who chose not to be aware or informed are choosing to place their destinies in the hands of others. High school seniors are preparing to enter into a phase in which they will start to feel the direct affect of the governmental policy. Most of them will have the opportunity to help decide said policies. So, being aware and informed is increasingly important.” about the importance of students being politically aware. One important thing you can do is register to vote in addition to becoming politically aware. To register to vote in North Carolina, a person must sign a voter declaration attesting that: I am a U.S. citizen. I will have been a resident of North Carolina and this county for 30 days before the election. I will be at least 18 years old by the next general election. Make sure to make your opinions heard, and educated.