College Kids: Apply for Your Absentee Ballots Today

Every time we turn on the radio, change the television channel and flip through the newspaper, we are reminded that there are some very important decisions to be made this November. For me, like many of my peers, the 2012 election is one of the first times we will have the opportunity to make our voices heard.

But, how in the world are we supposed to participate in the election process if we are miles away from our assigned polls? Absentee ballots!

Now is the time for students studying away from home to apply for an absentee ballot. The process is quite simple: 

First, make sure you are registered to vote. Many college campuses may have included this during their orientation festivities. If not, check out the Pennsylvania Department of State’s web page for detailed instructions (http://www.votespa.com/portal/server.pt/community/register_to_vote/13518). 

Once you receive your voter registration card with information on your polling location, navigate the afore mentioned website to print out an application for an absentee ballot (https://www.pavoterservices.state.pa.us/Pages/absenteeballotform.aspx). 

Your absentee ballot can be sent directly to your college mailbox, allowing you to make your voice heard no matter how far away you may be from your assigned polling location. 

Be sure to take the time to learn about this election year’s prevailing issues. As new voters, it may be easy to be swayed one way or the other. So, take the time to look at the issues from all perspectives to see where you stand. 

It is a great privilege to have the opportunity to play an active role in our government. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to make your voice heard by making your vote count!