Turning 18 is a significant milestone in many cultures, symbolizing the transition into adulthood and the accompanying responsibilities and rights. For me, this year marks not only my coming of age but also my first opportunity to vote in a presidential election. 

Voting is not just a right; it’s a civic duty. As a first-time voter, I recognize the importance of participating in the democratic process. Every vote counts, and being able to express my opinions and values through my ballot is empowering, this is my chance to influence issues that matter to me.

Back in the spring I learned how to pre-register to vote through my school. It was easier than I imagined, the only documentI needed was my Social Security number. I got a few letters in the mail confirming my pre-registration, but after that, I wasn’t sent anything until I received my ballot in October. 

When I saw my ballot I thought it was extremely cool I was able to vote right as I turned 18 but I became overwhelmed once I opened the white and pink envelope. There was a stack of folded papers covered side to side with text. My mind immediately panicked.

I decided the best thing to do was take out each paper one-by-one and identify its purpose; this eased my nerves. 

The first thing I saw inside was a pink envelope and I took note that this was where my completed ballot would go. Right under it was a card congratulating me on voting early and also an “I Voted” sticker for me to wear. The next two papers provided information on how to turn in my vote and ballot drop box locations near me. 

Now that I had reviewed each piece at a time I was relieved to find that only three out of the six papers were for me to cast and submit my votes. I set aside the sticker and drop box locations so I wouldn’t have so much in front of me at once, and I focused on my ballots.

I’m fortunate that I had prior knowledge to filling out my electoral ballot and knew who I wanted to vote for, Kamala Harris. 

The part that took me the longest and required some research was voting for the different propositions. 

On the ballot itself, the propositions each came with a short explanation of what it was. Despite this, to better understand them, I looked up the California ballot propositions and was easily able to learn more there until I was comfortable with voting. Doing more research on my own made me feel more confident and informed about my decisions.

When I was ready to submit my vote I used the paper I set aside to find a drop box location near me. Going in person instead of mailing my ballot in made the experience feel all the more real. 

As young voters, we have the power to shape the future. It’s time to embrace that power, educate ourselves, and inspire those around us to do the same. 

Voting at 18 was just the beginning of my journey, and I am committed to staying involved and encouraging my peers to recognize the importance of their voices. 

The future is ours to shape, and it starts with each of us taking that first step to vote.

I’m fortunate that for my first time voting, I got to vote for a woman for president.