There are occasions many Ball State University students feel they must take part in. This year, that includes casting their votes for the candidates of their choice.
Many students have embraced the political fervor that has swept the United States in this presidential election, raising their voices over the dull hum of apathy that seems to be the tag on our generation.
But wanting to participate in the election excitement is no excuse for denying our other duty as students: attending classes.
Maybe you have heard students in your Tuesday classes trying to convince your professors to cancel class to allow students time to get to the polls. Maybe you have been one of those people.
Asking for class to be canceled so you can vote is unnecessary.
The polls in Delaware County open at 6 a.m., and they don't close until 6 p.m. The earliest classes at Ball State begin at 8 a.m., so even if you have class from then until nighttime, you've still got two hours to vote, and very few people have class all day.
If you're so adamant about casting your ballot, then you can get out of bed an hour early to do it.
A more legitimate reason for missing class would be if you were volunteering for the political parties. Candidates still need supporters, and volunteers are always needed to help out at polling sites.
Professors would likely be more receptive to excusing students who were giving up their time to support such civic endeavors.
Without a doubt, lines and waiting times will be longer this year than they have been in the past. Early voters have already shared stories of waiting two hours to cast their ballots.
During early voting, though, you have fewer places to vote than you will have Tuesday. On Election Day numerous polling places around the county are open at once to alleviate those wait times.
You need to plan ahead this year. Give yourself enough time to vote and get back to campus, keeping in mind that you might not just be able to get in and out.
If you have a jam-packed schedule, then you may need to do some tricky planning to ensure you can hit the polls and your classes, but you can make it work.
Your interest and enthusiasm in voting shows that you are ready to accept some reponsibility for the American political system.
Don't try to skirt your responsibilties as a student.
Tuesday you have two duties. Don't skip out on either.
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
