While getting actively involved in politics may seem like something that is far off in the future, many opportunities exist for students to get involved now.

For most students, interest in politics heightens during secondary education. For some, it starts much earlier. For example, junior Nick Bowman has been fascinated with politics from an early age.

“I think I’ve always been pretty interested in politics as my family is pretty politically active,” said Bowman. “They participate in various social groups that promote political activity and [I] have always been one to pay attention to the news and to just be aware about what’s going on.”

Advanced Placement United States Government and Politics (AP Govt.) teacher Mr. Charles Roeder believes that political views have close family ties. While many do tend to develop their own political interest from those close to them, having unlimited access to the news through media also plays a huge role.

Senior Bryce Walker believes that being a politically active student means being “aware of what’s happening in the political climate around you and not be afraid to engage in the politics […] Also to be respectful of other people’s views.”

Many students feel the pressure of having to choose a side. While what is going on in Washington D.C. may seem distant to some students, Bowman reinforces the importance of voting.

“Once you reach the age of 18, you get the right to vote which is an extremely precious right that we as Americans possess that is rather underestimated and undervalued compared to the rest of the world, and the right to a vote is extremely influential and powerful especially in how we shape our country,” said Bowman.

Both Bowman and Walker have been active outside of school by staying up-to-date on current events and being active on social media. Bowman even attended a Bernie Sanders rally last year.

Going to rallies and supporting the candidate running for office is an excellent way to get involved. Roeder, Bowman, and Walker agreed that simply reading the news is the easiest way to be active.

Walker said, “It’s important just to be aware, so that you can be an informed citizen and make the choices to better your own country. As politics and pop culture become more blended, I think it’s important for everyone to have their own opinion, as it’s everyone’s government of the people, by the people, for the people.”

Knowing the positions of those in power and how world issues impact the single student is paramount.  One single student can make an impact in the political process just by getting involved.