Birthday milestones are a dime a dozen in youth: At 13, you’re a teenager, at 14, you can apply for your first job, and at 16, it’s time for driving lessons. However, most important is a teen’s 18th birthday, when they are finally able to make a change in our government through voting. 1 in 8 voters in the 2022 election were from Gen Z, and many NHS students in our community were among them. Below, seniors Jenna Dopps, Ellie Payne, and Aro Doddridge described their first experience voting. 

Jenna

Why did you choose to vote?

I chose to vote because I think it is important to have a say in what the policies of the country and the community around you. I am not the biggest fan of politics, but I also know that politics are going to affect me whether I choose to vote or not, so I would much rather have voted and had some say in the people representing me. 

What changes do you hope your vote brings to our community?

I hope that my vote can help to make our community a more accepting place. There were some people on the ballot who were supporting some issues that I do not agree with, and I wanted to make sure that I exercise my right to vote and keep them out of office.

Ellie 

Why did you choose to vote?

This summer at American Legion Auxiliary Hoosier Girls’ State (essentially government camp) I really got fired up to vote as we learned more about the democratic process and the importance of researching candidates and carefully selecting them rather than voting along party lines. More particular to this election, however, I was truly excited to have a say in who our school board members would be. It’s important to keep our school an open and welcoming environment for students to explore a variety of topics including diversity, equity, and inclusion. 

What changes do you hope your vote brings to our community?

With important spots up for election and reelection in this midterm election, including positions from school board members to US Representative, I hope for my vote to reflect my own values. I hope that those whom I carefully selected on the ballot will listen to our generation as we plead for positive change, whether it be for reproductive rights or the right to a diversified education. I hope that my enthusiasm and encouragement towards voting inspires both my peers and my elders to head to the polls.

Aro

Why did you choose to vote?

I vote because I’m thinking about the impacts of not voting and letting someone else take my voice will have on my family, friends, and my own existence.

What changes do you hope your vote brings to our community? 

I hope to bring in more equality, safety, and funding for women, POC, and the LGBTQIA community. I also want a better education system and need people to push it for me.