Deidree Friesen | Co Editor-in-Chief

For most students at Buena Vista University, this will be the first time our voices will be heard in a presidential election. This will be the first time we walk into that booth, pick up a pen, and check the boxes. This will be the first time our votes will be counted to see which candidate will win. You might think to yourself, as I often do, “How can my one vote matter in the sea of millions?” To me, what matters is taking part in our civic duty and choosing who we think will best lead our country.

I have never been one for politics. They have never interested me or mattered to me much. However, as the election approaches, I have slowly started to appreciate political talk and to really understand my own political stance. I have taken time to research what these candidates have been arguing about. I have spent hours upon hours debating where I stand. Why? Because this will affect my future. And it will affect yours too! We have an amazing privilege as American citizens to vote. We must act on that privilege.

Before stepping into the booth to check mark boxes, you need to register. If you’re like me, you have no idea how to do that. Don’t worry – I have done the research for you, if you’re registering as an Iowa resident. (If you’re not registering in Iowa, visit this voter registration site for step-by-step instructions for each state).

In Iowa, there are three ways for you to register. Online, by mail, and in person.

Pre-Register Online

All you need is your Iowa driver’s license, social security number, and your birthdate to register online. Register online here.

Pre-Register by Mail

To mail in your registration, you’ll need to download the form, fill it out, and send it in by Oct. 24 to your county auditor. See additional information about mailing registration here.

Register In Person on Election Day

You can also fill out the form and turn it in on Election Day, as long as you remember to bring your driver’s license or any of the other accepted forms of identification as well as proof of Iowa residency in the form of a bill, paycheck, etc.  See more information here.

Register In Person at BVU

Finally, you can also register in person on campus on Oct. 13, when BVU has a satellite voting station on for students. You Read more about the satellite voting at BVU here.

Get registered. Take a stand for what you believe in, engage in your civic privilege and make a difference for your future. Vote!

Graphic by Deidree Friesen