The election cycle is coming to an end, but it is certainly not slowing down.
In fact, this week leading up to Nov. 6 is perhaps the most important time to encourage students to think critically about their democratic right to vote.
The Miami Student editorial board urges readers to understand how enormous our freedom to vote (or not vote) actually is, and how many people are literally fighting for that right every day.
That being said, it is also crucial that as voters we are thoroughly educated.
This involves having an understanding of the many facets of each side of an argument.
Our generation is often criticized for its apathy when it comes to national and international affairs.
We are plugged in, but far too often, we are tuned out.
Often it feels as though there is barely enough time in the day to take a breath.
As we juggle classes, work, clubs and organizations and personal considerations, it seems we have no time to catch up on the nuances of U.S. involvement abroad, or to understand complicated legislation.
But there is always time.
If students have time to go out on a Tuesday night, they have time to stay informed about political issues.
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The change starts with a shift in priorities.
This board believes that staying informed must be a daily priority in order for us to become educated contributors to the political conversation.
Go beyond Twitter.
Complicated political issues cannot be summarized in 140 characters.
Internet resources like Isidewith.com are good springboards for voters to learn about every candidate in the election.
The board also encourages voters to truly believe that every vote counts, even though it may often seem futile to vote for third party or "losing" candidates.
Vote for what you believe in, even if it means voting for a third party candidate who has no chance of getting into office - your vote today could help change the political system years down the road.
We hear so many say they are frustrated with the current political system that forces voters to choose the "lesser of two evils."
We hear people complain about the polarized system and the negativity of the campaigns.
Remember that soon, we will be the ones running for office and we will have the power to change that.
And while Ohio voters are surely tired of being bombarded by polarized, often negative, campaign ads, we are also reminded of how hotly coveted our votes in this state truly are.
Furthermore, the board believes that if someone chooses not to vote, he or she has no right to complain about poor political policy decisions for the next four years.
If you want something to change, you must acknowledge your ability to change it.
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