The percentage of voters during presidential election years in the United States is low, and even lower in the midterms. Students do not realize the importance of voting. Every vote counts. The only way to change the future of the country is to pick the leaders we trust to make the right decisions. As students, we have our whole lives ahead of us, and voting will determine how we will live our lives. I cannot stress how important it is to vote. Use the motivation you come across in college to work toward a promising future.

1. Every vote matters.

Your vote counts as much as anyone else. Take the opportunity to voice your opinion on the future of this country.

2. Youth vote 18 to 25 is the lowest voter turnout.

The turnout for voters between young and old is quite different. Older people are voting more and many old people want to keep the country the way it is. If we want change, the younger people need to vote. In 2012, only 40 percent of people age 18 to 20 voted. Whereas 70 percent of people 60 and older voted.

3. We have the power to decide who makes changes.

Congress decides most of the policies and we get to vote for who is making these policies. The policies will directly affect your life. If you don't vote, you can’t complain about who gets elected.

4. Change requires participation.

The only way we can produce any change for our country, we must get involved. The people have the power, and when we come together, anything is possible.

5. It's never been easier to vote.

With the internet and today's technology, there's no excuse not to vote. Registering takes 30 seconds and they mail the voting packet to your front door. Take the time to vote!

6. Trump sounds like a nightmare.

Our country is in deep trouble if Donald Trump gets elected. If people aren't out voting, the crazy Trump fans get their wish of having Trump as the POTUS. He will take our great country off our path to betterment and lead us to more mistakes.

7. Don’t rely on others.

Two-thirds of the population doesn't vote. They think their vote is meaningless and with fewer people voting, we rely on a small amount of people to represent our nation.

8. It's your duty as a citizen.

The United States is a democracy. We rely on the people to elect our officials and our rules. If we don't vote, it isn't a democracy.

9. These issues impact your life and future.

The policies made by Congress impact your taxes, school systems, laws, healthcare, and much more. Support the people who will benefit your life and those around you.

10. Gives power to the youth.

The youth of America has the same voting rights as the elderly. College students have a large amount of power when they come together. They will be the future leaders of this country so their vote means more to their life. You will be here for longer, so control your future.