As many of the traditional students in college, this election year will be the first time that my vote will be counted in who becomes the next leader of this great nation. With South Carolina primaries in progress and November approaching fast, I am feeling the pressure to make a decision. Yes, it is possible that I am taking this new responsibility way too seriously, but I like to think that I am just grateful to have a voice, even if it is a tiny one, in the future of my country.

Unlike many people my age, I enjoy politics. No, I don't sit in front of the TV watching moment to moment updates on Congress delegation, but I do like to compare candidate platforms and keep up with recent legislation that could have an effect on me. This could be another reason why I am completely overly excited about casting my vote.

Right now, with the presidential election being at the forefront of most news, younger people are starting to become more engaged in the realm of politics. There are two sides to this. First, it's great that members of the younger generation are going to participate in their civic duty. However, the presidential election is only one election. There are more seats that need voters to fill. Senate, House of Representatives, Governors, Mayors and city councils all make decisions that have an effect on our lives both nationally and locally. Voting in the presidential election is definitely a big deal, but we do not need to forget about the small elections. In fact, the local elections are the ones that would affect daily life more quickly and more dramatically than the national elections. As I said, I have a tiny voice, which is another reason why voting in elections that elect representatives to speak in a louder voice for my interests is so important.

Another huge thing that first-time voters, like myself, need to do before hitting the polls is that we must be informed. Most days, it seems the media would rather society just be mindless zombies that take the things they say as gospel. And unfortunately sometimes, they are successful in this attempt. I try not to fall into this trap. Choosing the best candidate to be the Commander-in-Chief is not an easy decision when you are basing your decision off of the issues rather than the popularity of a candidate. This is why voters must go and do their own research. Listen to what candidates are saying, and then go back and fact check them. Dig as deep as you can until you are confident you are adding a tally beside the name of the best person available.

First-time voting, to me, is a very exciting experience. I have heard several of the presidential candidates speak throughout my community. I have listened to their plans for this country. After doing some more research, I hope that I will have a clear decision. I also hope that others in my age group will do the same and hit the polls not just in this presidential election but in the smaller ones as well.