After only the first episode of "Scandal," I found myself hooked. It wasn't just the storylines that intrigued me though. For the first time in my life, I genuinely wanted to learn more about politics, and maybe even become politically active myself.

As trivial as it may sound, watching a powerful woman like Olivia Pope run Washington inspired me to take the leap and contact a congressional candidate for New Jersey’s 7th district, Lindsay Brown. I now assist with press and social media for her campaign.

If you're at all interested in making a difference in your town, your state, or the country as a whole, I highly recommend you make your voice heard. After all, our generation is America’s future.

What can you do?

For starters, vote — and not just in presidential elections. Who We The People vote into office at the gubernatorial, congressional, and even mayoral levels is just as critical as who occupies the Oval.

Second, champion a cause that matters to you. Maybe you’re vehemently opposed to gun control laws, or want to change the way rape cases are handled in court. Maybe you just want to help prevent littering in your county and keep your streets clean. Whatever your cause, bring it to the attention of elected officials.

Finally, work on a campaign! Find a candidate whose morals and positions align with your own, and reach out. In my experience, candidates almost always welcome volunteers, and the smaller the campaign, the more hands-on experience and training you will receive! You could even make a donation if you're so inclined.

Whatever avenue you choose to pursue, remember to have fun with it! The democratic process is the foundation of our country, and the more people who choose to partake in it, the better off we all will be.