Freshman Jana Helou, an 18-year-old biology major at Oakland University from Macomb, Michigan, is eagerly preparing to cast her first vote in the upcoming presidential election.
This significant milestone is one she has anticipated since her high school days. Growing up in a politically active family, Jana was encouraged to engage with civic issues early on, participating in rallies and community meetings that shaped her understanding of the importance of voting.
“I’ve been looking forward to this moment since I learned about voting,” Helou said. “It feels empowering to finally have a say in the issues that affect my life and the community around me. Every vote matters, and every young voice deserves to be heard. It’s vital for our democracy that young people understand the significance of their participation. We can shape the future together if we all take the initiative to get involved and make our opinions count.”
As she researches candidates and ballot measures, Helou is also focused on inspiring her peers to get involved. She recognizes that many students may not realize how easy it is to register or that they can vote by absentee ballot if they’re away from home.
“It’s crucial for us, as young voters, to make our voices heard,” Helou said. “I want to make sure my friends understand how important it is to participate in the electoral process. We can shape the future we want to see. We have a unique perspective as the younger generation.”
Helou’s commitment to informed voting and civic engagement reflects a broader trend among young voters this election season. A recent poll indicated that youth engagement is at an all-time high, with many first-time voters eager to impact the direction of key issues like climate change, social justice and education reform.
“I think we have a unique perspective as the younger generation,” Helou said. “We’re inheriting the world, and the decisions made today will affect us for years to come. The decisions made today will have a lasting impact on our lives and the lives of those who come after us. It’s our responsibility to engage and influence those decisions.”
With her passion and drive, Helou embodies the spirit of a new generation ready to take on the challenges ahead. As she prepares to step into the voting booth for the first time, she stands as a reminder that every vote matters and every young voice deserves to be heard.
“I hope to see more young people getting involved, not just in voting but in all aspects of civic life,” Helou said. “We have the power to create the change we want to see in our communities and our country, but that requires active participation. It starts with being informed and making our voices heard.”
To look into your area’s candidates for the 2024 election, visit michigan.gov and learn about how to vote in Michigan, how to vote on election day and more.
