As a College of Design student in 1980, I voted in my first national election. I still feel pride in trying to elect, not a perfect candidate, but the person I felt would be better for the country. I graduated from State in 1982 and have voted in every election since — with the same goal: protect myself, children and those who can’t vote by making the best choice I can. I also protest and resist, but resistance is more efficient if we minimize the things which need resisting by keeping people we mostly don’t agree with out of office.

I vote even when the choices are all boring and flawed: I know my vote isn’t a gift to the candidate, but a gift to myself. I don’t like politics, but I like deciding who governs me. I don’t try to learn everything about all the candidates — I ignore political ads and find a source I tend to agree with, read voter guides and endorsements and make my choices. I vote even for Soil & Water Conservation manager because I’ve seen bad senators get their start in that office.

I don’t wait for election day — early voting is just too easy. This simple site has information for student voting all over the country — it’s all here: campusvoteproject.org/studentguides/.

Do I vote because my experience at NC State taught me how to be an engaged citizen? I do think so.

Jimmy Holcomb is an NC State alum, he graduated in 1982 from the College of Design.