The election is just around the corner, and many are preparing to cast their ballots. But for some high schoolers, this is their first time voting. And the deadline to register is coming up soon on Oct. 7. 

Voting can seem intimidating, especially for the first time, but understanding the importance is crucial. 

“It is incredibly important that students understand the importance of voting,” social studies teacher Lloyd Winebarger said. “They are the largest single group inside our country, and they are the most affected by the outcomes of every election.” 

Registering to vote won’t just be for the presidential election, but also for state elections too. 

“Most people aren’t paying attention to the state elections, but 90% of the issues that people care about, from groceries, to gas prices, to the way the schools are run, to the way the state is run, those are all state level things,” Winebarger said. 

Before the actual voting happens, one must register to vote. To some, this may seem like a tedious or confusing process, but it’s only a couple of simple steps to follow.  

The process takes a few minutes and only needs to be done once, unless someone’s personal information changes. 

“I did it from the comfort of my own bed … ” senior Van Chin said. “I went on the website and did it under 10 minutes.”

To be able to vote, one must meet certain criteria. This involves being 18 years old on or before the election, being a U.S. citizen, having lived in the same house for 30 days before the election and not being imprisoned.

 If all this criteria is met, then one can start the registration process. 

The only thing that is needed is an Identification Card number or, for most high schoolers, a Driver’s License Number. 

After gathering all the required information, head over to the IN.gov voter portal. Then, click “Apply Now” under the Register to Vote square.

Then, insert your name and identification number. After that, just follow the steps on the website and enter all necessary information. 

To make the process go easier, make sure to have all information ready or have a trusted adult help. This could be a family member or a teacher. 

“It’s a very easy process. If you do have any problems or questions then ask teachers … Social studies teachers would be the most helpful,” Chin said. 

This simple process will allow those who are able to vote to have a voice for those who cannot. Most high schoolers are not at the age where they are able to vote yet, so the small number that are should take this opportunity to voice their opinions. 

“Just because you can’t vote doesn’t mean you don’t have a voice,” Winebarger said.