Bluffton, S.C.: Young Voters Making Their Voices Heard
As the election season heats up, the influence of young voters is more crucial than ever. At the University of South Carolina Beaufort (USCB), students are stepping up and making their voices heard, one vote at a time.
In a bustling classroom, Forrest Simmons, a Communication major, reflects on the significance of his role in shaping the future. “The ball is in our court,” Forrest said. “And, you know, people like us have the ability to decide the future of this country.”
Forrest and his classmates are delving deep into the political landscape through the Political Communication and Practices course. Co-taught by Jayne Violette and Kevin Dopf, this course is a staple every presidential election season, designed to empower students with the knowledge and tools they need to make informed decisions.
Empowering Young Minds
Jayne Violette, a USCB Communication professor, emphasizes the course’s mission. “Young people don’t always understand how much power they have personally, professionally, or politically,” Violette said. “So, the point of this course is to raise that awareness of what they are able to do. And of course, getting out there and voting is the most awesome responsibility and privilege that anybody can have.”
Both professors agreed that the most engaging way to involve the students would be to watch the presidential debate held on September 12. The event not only drew in the students enrolled in the course but also attracted a large crowd of other USCB students, filling the venue to capacity.
Engaging Discussions and New Perspectives
Arianna Pee, another student enrolled in the course, shares how it’s impacting her approach to politics. She is using the course to help navigate elections, understand how policy works, and how politicians strategize. “This course is helping me not get as caught up on emotion or things that are being said to kind of get a rise out of me,” Pee said, adding that it’s helping her look at things from a more logical perspective.
Despite differing political viewpoints, Dopf, a Political Science professor at USCB, finds the discussions refreshing. “It’s amazing to see students engaging in civilized conversations about the election season and the debates,” he said. “That’s what makes democracy great. You have opinions on one side and the other, and they have to come together. There has to be some compromise to get things done.”
Preparing for the Future
USCB students aren’t just learning about politics; they’re actively preparing to shape the future. They’re engaged in thoughtful discussions and embracing their role as the next generation of voters. Violette and Dopf are already gearing up for the next big event: a watch party scheduled for October 1, where students will watch Tim Walz and JD Vance take on the presidential election debate.
This current atmosphere at USCB is a clear testament to the growing enthusiasm and involvement of young voters, which many believe will play a vital role in the upcoming elections. Students like Forrest and Arianna symbolize a shifting culture towards more active civic engagement among their peers, proving that tomorrow’s leaders are beginning to take their places today.
As Bluffton’s younger generation prepares for the electoral process, they are also learning invaluable lessons about democracy, political discourse, and the importance of their participation. Their enthusiasm and drive promise not just to influence their immediate surroundings but potentially the larger national stage as well.
