Voting is arguably the most important public opportunity given to citizens in the United States. In recent elections, much attention has been focused on the number of young people going out and voting. Traditionally in American elections, young people have stood out for their consistently low levels of electoral involvement, but a slight shift has appeared in the direction of greater engagement in recent years.

Election day is when our nation comes together to elect a leader who will represent us on the global stage for the next four years. We will elect a leader that will stand for our rights as citizens, students, employees and employers.

It is an important decision and this election marks a crucial point in our nation's history.

1. First of all, voting is your right. Use it!

Voting is an important right and we have a duty to exercise it. Many governments around the world don’t allow for their citizens to take any part in electing officials or have a voice. Luckily for you, you do have the opportunity to participate in selecting government leaders and the well-being of our democracy relies on your participation. Voting is the opportunity to contribute to the political process, and this system was shaped to work best when everyone takes part. Therefore, using your right to vote is not just an adding on to the voter turnout statistics. Your vote actually makes a difference and the nation wants to hear your opinion. We live in a democracy and a democracy is a system of government in which the total of the population participates. So, participate!

2. You have an opinion on the issues.

Every person has their own views and opinions regarding various issues. The candidates represent different opposite views on issues like women's rights, healthcare, immigration, education and taxes and each person certainly has some outlook on it. As a voter, you will be sharing your opinion on questions like: Should illegal immigrants be allowed to stay in the United States to continue their education? Who should be getting tax breaks? Should the government help fund education? Your opinion needs to be heard.

3. Your vote matters.

A popular thought among many Americans is that people don't believe their vote will make any difference, but recent history has revealed that elections can be decided by just a handful of votes. Taking the initiative to vote can help avoid elections from being left to chance.

4. The local elections matter, too.

There’s a presidential election every four years, but when you go to the polls, you are also voting for your local representatives. Many citizens don't realize that some of the most important decisions made in this election will be a result of who gets elected as senators, representatives and local officials. So, if you are not eagerly supporting either of the presidential candidates, know that your trip to the polls is a multipurpose result.

5. Shape the social agenda.

Is there a social issue you have a particular stance on or passionate about? Gay marriage, capital punishment, abortion and the separation of church and state are only a few of many argumentative topics that lead the political discourse. Learn about the candidates' views on issues that are important to you and vote in support of your beliefs.

6. Economic policies will affect your future.

Politicians are constantly making decisions about higher education costs and student loan policies. Most expect social security benefits to be gone or greatly diminished by the time college-aged individuals reach retirement age (which will be higher than it is now). These issues and more prove that you have significant economic interest in every election.

7. Have your say on environmental issues.

The environment stands are one of the biggest political topics of this generation. Many climate experts warn of serious, potentially permanent weather changes that may drastically alter life on our planet. Whether you agree with a certain action or have other views, your vote is a way to express your opinions on what is best for our country and in this case, the world.

8. You're part of an important voting block. (College Students voting)

There are more than 75 million millennials, a number that rivals the number of baby boomers — another important voting block. The problem is that college students typically vote in much smaller numbers than older citizens.

9. Politicians won't address student needs without student votes.

Politicians know who votes each election and they are more likely to support issues that are popular among certain groups with the highest voter turnout. For college students to have major political influence, students must turn out in larger numbers than is traditionally seen.

10. Demonstrate concern for the next generation.

We are the future; we should start voting more because it will affect us and future generations to come. By voting, you are not only influencing the present, but you are also determining the future.

11. Honor past sacrifices.

Voting can be seen as a way to honor those who have helped to secure our rights. Military members who have fought for this country, suffrage activists and Civil Rights leaders, are only a few examples of those to whom we owe our respect and appreciation. Voting gives you the opportunity to help pay that debt.

Voting is your opportunity to join the numerous American citizens in their pursuit for a better America. Plus, watching the results of the election will be more exhilarating to the individual who voted. Go cast your vote!