Some of us are drawn to the political system. It makes sense though considering our government is the reason we live as we do today. Without those who go out of their way to learn and advocate for others, we wouldn’t be where we are in society. So how can you follow this path of interest? Here are a few ideas and practices you can implement.
Discover what drives you/find a cause
The world’s climate nowadays is shaky with all of the different causes and organizations that specialize in different areas, whether that be social or radical issues, we all have beliefs.
College is a place where students can find themselves without the pressure of parents or students they have grown up with. It is the trial run for those who will discover their inner core-- only if you take the leap though.
So do some research! Look into some social causes that you care for. Maybe it is a direct relation to something you have dealt with or someone you care about. Either way the motivation will help to prepare you for your political endeavors.
False information destroys credibility and overall you just don’t want to look like you didn’t care enough to make sure you understood a subject. This is a chance to make a difference.
Join a Club!
This may go without saying, but look into the clubs offered at your university! Colleges typically allow a plethora of different organizations to be a part of to meet the needs of a diverse group of students.
Sure you can sign up for a history class or something specialized to learn some information about the political world, but there is nothing like working side by side with your peers. Not only do you have more of a say in things versus a classroom, you may get some opportunities to actually experience.
American Student Union, National Student Association, the National Youth Alliance-- all of these are political associations that take a stance on a general side and vouch for said beliefs.
Now that you have decided what it is you take an interest in, find a club on campus that will suit your needs.
Take some classes
College is a place you choose to go to expand your mind into a world of possibilities rather than a forced school curriculum. Because of this you finally have the chance to take those classes you are truly interested in.
If you really have your heart set on being more politically active then take some extra history or political science classes. These types of studies will have you learning in depth about the psychology of politics as well as why and how we are in the state we are today.
You may have a chance to debate your other classmates which will come in handy if you do want to pursue a career in politics. Having a discourse of history that will be amplified will also be a handy tool when wanting to deal with the future political scenes of our country.
So yes, feel free to take those fun electives but remember that you still have plenty to learn from your school.
Volunteer your services
Now that you are well into your adult years you can be trusted to offer a hand in the real world. Young minds are the most motivated and creative, and those in politics know this.
Every year new technology and trends come about that younger generations naturally flow with, and this kind of insight can be valuable. So why not volunteer yourself to aid those in politics? There are different situations you could find that would allow this for you such as campaigning.
Even if it is a smaller position like mayor or maybe a bigger one like the president or senate position politicians will need those who support them to help reach a larger audience of potential voters.
Whether it is small like passing out posters or knocking on doors, to maybe something larger like social media planning or events, these opportunities can present themselves. What more of a way to make change then by helping someone you agree with reach a level of power to make a change!
Contact your local legislators
Studies have shown that people do not show up to vote for midterm elections at the same rate as presidential elections. This is probably due to the education system in our state primarily teaching about presidents rather than other positions of powers.
Nonetheless, it is still important to show up for elections for your local governors and senators-- they are the ones who represent your state. Not to mention they also directly impact you.
We saw during the pandemic that governors were the ones to decide when the states could safely reopen. They have more power than you might think.
So if you don’t agree with ways things are done or said, do something about it! Want to write about an issue? Contact your legislature by mail or phone. This will ensure that the problem has been brought up and maybe you’ll see some change coming. Especially if you have multiple people following your lead.
Vote!
Just like wanting to be a marine biologist means you need to know how to swim, wanting to be in politics means being familiar with voting.
The eligibility to vote is a right that we as Americans of all kinds have fought to do. In certain countries they still face discrimination and unfair voting processes. We are lucky to live in a functioning democratic society. With that being said, make sure you vote for those local legislators and positions of power. You have a voice that is meant to be heard and one that can make real change, whether you believe it or not. Voting is important.
There are plenty of resources available to clear up confusions about voting as well.
Be active on social media
Social media is great for a lot of things, keeping in contact, entertainment, and sharing yourself with the world. Take advantage of this technological world that we live in and use these platforms to speak out.
After properly doing your research as we suggested, maybe create an online conversation about something that you care about. Nowadays it is much easier to reach a larger audience from a few clicks on your device than ever.
Tons of political leaders are on social media because it is a way of relaying news a lot faster than waiting for a magazine or news outlet to report. You also get a sense of who these people are because they can post more casually on a platform than in press conferences or meetings. Typically it is easier to trust someone you get to know so social media is great for this.
Consider making some noise on your social media site and you may generate some loyal followers as well as getting attention from someone who can make big changes.
Social media is most often free so it really does not come at a price to simply relay what it is you care for. Consider writing a weekly blog and generate some readers who may learn to trust you like you trust your role models.
Remember though everyone has their own opinion so do not get discouraged if you come across any number of online trolls or rude comments. As long as you keep it professional it should not matter.
Make sure you do your research and provide accurate and unbiased information into the world. Heaven knows how far too often we see incorrect “facts” online.
Use this technology in your favor and to get more participation in the political world.
You are well on your way
Now that you have a few tips on how to be more politically active on your campus, it is your turn to implement them! No change will happen if you do not put the work in, so take those classes, and grab at any opportunity given to you to make some change.
Great leaders are not born, they are made and that is why you may be the perfect candidate!
