When the voting polls come around, it is a pivotal time in America as it marks a new era of changes and opportunities. As we know, the participation of citizens during voting season impacts the outcome of all elections.

Unfortunately, as college students, there are many of us who believe our participation will not make an impact on the overall election, and thus many do not actually vote when the time arrives.

According to usa.today.com, previous statistics from national polls anticipate a decrease in voting for 18-24 year olds in the 2016 election.

USA Today Columnist Collin Brennan explained, “Young adult voters between the ages of 18 through 24 have consistently voted at lower rates than all other age groups in every presidential election since 1962.”

Many young people feel that since there are so many older, avid voters, they will make up the majority of the votes so that we do not have to.

In addition, many college students do not know yet what they want to do with their lives, and their overall sense of home and establishment is lost. This can lead many to feel as if they do not have a permanent place within their immediate communities. This lack of home or community becomes an issue when young people feel as though they have no important role or place in their town and thus refrain from voting.

This mentality needs to change. Despite these feelings, it is incredibly important that college students show up to the polls and vote. Every opinion matters. Each single vote will have an impact, no matter what age range it is coming from.

We as young adults should cast our votes in the 2016 presidential election for many reasons.

It is our right. We have heard this since elementary school, and therefore it can be an easy thought to dismiss. It is important to remember that we have a privilege that many others around the world do not. We should appreciate and take advantage of the fact that we have a voice, and it counts towards change.

There are numerous social issues that we all seem to have opinions on that dominate the political discourse, so why not vote for candidates who share the same beliefs as you? Why not have a say and stand up for what you believe in?

In addition, many election results are close to a tie, so your vote could be the deciding factor.