The earliest election that I can remember was in 2008, when John McCain was running against Obama. Seeing as I was only 11-years-old or so, I didn’t pay very much attention to either of the candidate’s values. In 2012, I’m honestly not sure anyone expected Obama not to be elected for a second term, and I was probably too angry with pubescent angst to care about politics. That makes this year the first election where I can say I’ve honestly paid attention to just about all of the information that I can get my hands on. Since it’s my first year voting, I started reading up on all potential candidates when I was 16-years-old out of some kind of over-inflated sense of importance. When I was 16-years-old I thought my personal vote would change the entire world.
Of course, now I know that’s not true, but from following the debates and such, I have learned one very important thing that will definitely affect how I vote: I may not survive a Trump presidency.
As many of my readers know, I’m an LGBTQ+ woman who has been affected by sexual assault. Donald Trump has made comments that treat sexual assault like a joke, which I foresee leading to laws that would make life even more hellish for those living with PTSD.
He has also made racist comments, about how all Mexicans living in the United States are illegal. All of the biggest problems in the country, such as lack of jobs and violent crimes are being blamed on the so-called “illegal” Hispanic population. Now, are there undocumented immigrants living here? Sure, but letting your Visa expire doesn’t mean you’re any less of a person than someone who was born here, and it sure as hell doesn’t make you a violent criminal.
Anyone who remembers seventh-grade history class should know that Adolf Hitler rose to power by blaming all of Germany’s problems on Jewish citizens. It was said that he would take the country back and “make it great again.” Doesn’t that sound familiar?
Some people say that Trump represents the working American and will do great things for those who value hard work, but how can you expect someone who considers a million dollars a “small loan?” How can you trust a selfish billionaire to do what’s best for the community instead of lining his own pockets and leaving hard-working Americans still busting their asses to get half a day off?
So, please, from someone who is exactly the kind of person Trump is against, vote for someone else.
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Luckily, many colleges offer a number of ways to take part in campus and community life, without forcing you to dedicate all of your time to these organizations. Here are a few ideas!
1. Look into Housing and Dining.
Many first-year students start off college life in residence halls, and the Housing & Dining network throughout campus often provides multiple opportunities for students throughout the year. Many buildings have student community councils that work to create policies and events that make the dorms a more welcoming home for residents. Becoming a community assistant (or the students who work the desks at the front of many halls) is another easy way to have a consistent, well-paying job only minutes away from your room.
If you really enjoyed your housing experience, consider applying to be an RLA, or, if the school offers it, help to teach the first-year community. You'll get the chance to help support new and returning students over the year, and many of these positions also cover major costs like board and meal plans.
2. Pay attention to campus postings.
This advice is more obvious, but it still gets overlooked a fair amount. Even on a busy day, taking the time to stop around campus and look at the flyers advertising clubs and events can draw your attention to something that you never would've noticed otherwise. Students on many campuses also chalk the sidewalk to catch students' attention while they walk to class. Just make sure that the event you're interested in hasn't taken place already!
3. Find common interest groups.
One way to find friends and get involved is to focus on what you're passionate about. Have you always loved to sing? Do you enjoy playing video games? Is photography your favorite past-time? Have you always wanted to join Greek life? Whatever you love devoting your time to, chances are there are organizations around school who are focused on the same thing. Check the student life section of your university's website, or stop by a student organization fair at the beginning of the semester.
4. Join an intramural sports team.
If you're the athletic type, you've probably heard of intramural sports. Often offered through the Rec Center or the residence halls, most colleges often offer various indoor and outdoor sports to take part in throughout the year. Personal favorite? Mini golf.
5. Work on a cause that you care about.
Whether you're passionate about a political group, a social cause, or a religion, working with people who value beliefs similar to yours can be an easy way to meet people, get a better sense of your own identity, and promote causes that are important to you. Look into getting involved with College Democrats, Republicans, or whatever party that you belong to. Find a club that supports social issues, from women's rights to protecting the environment. If you're religious, look into student organizations based on your faith.
6. Join a club related to your major.
Even if you're not entirely sure what you want to do after school, finding a club or organization related to your field of studies can benefit you long after you leave the classroom. From career-related workshops to conferences to professional connections, these groups have a lot to boast.
7. Get an on-campus job.
If you have the time, need to work, or want to save a few extra dollars, finding a job on or near campus is a time-effective way to build up your bank account and gain work experience. Check in your residence hall (see #1), at local businesses and offices, or make an appointment with your school's career center.
8. Volunteer.
When you're caught up in school life, it can be hard to think about the bigger picture. Volunteering your time to people (or animals/an environment) in need puts things in perspective and allows you to feel good while making a positive difference. Check if your college town has a volunteer page, or look up local organizations requesting help.
Best of luck this year! Get out, and get busy.
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