With more than 11,500 students at the University of New Hampshire (UNH), many are eager to vote in the upcoming election. But a major question is if students do plan to vote and what their thoughts are on the election so far.
Evan Christensen, a freshman majoring in genetics at UNH, plans to vote in the 2024 presidential election. Although he isn’t currently registered, Christensen, an in-state student, intends to go home on Election Day, Nov. 5, to cast his ballot.
Christensen believes it is important for college students to vote, saying it provides an opportunity to be heard. He views voting as especially significant because college is where many students begin to develop their own political views.
“Taking these classes and meeting people from not necessarily where we came from gives different views where you might not have thought about what policies affected what before,” said Christensen. “Being a college student gives a greater viewpoint than if you voted while you were in high school.”
While Christensen supports voting, he also understands that not everyone will choose to participate, and that is their right. “You should vote, but also it’s as much as someone’s choice to vote as it is not to vote.”
Alexandra Billgert, a junior studying psychology with a minor in forensic and justice studies, has already voted. She took a shuttle to Oyster River High School to cast her vote. Billgert emphasizes the importance of voting, especially this year.
“I think it is so important to vote, especially now, because so much is on the line,” said Billgert.
Ava Maonar, a sophomore majoring in nutrition, is a first-time voter. She submitted her vote through an absentee ballot. Maonar also believes college students must vote. “Every vote matters,” she said.
Not everyone at UNH plans to vote, however. Sophomore Olivia Baker, who isn’t registered to vote, said she won’t be participating in this election. “I am not educated enough,” she said. While Baker acknowledges the importance of voting, she feels that she isn’t yet prepared to do so.
Election Day is here, and voting polls are open. UNH is providing a shuttle service, starting at 7 a.m., with pick-up locations at Holloway Commons and Garrison Avenue for students needing a ride to the polls.
Durham polls close at 7 p.m.
