Study-abroad students dig for election details in run-up to big day

By Dani Smith

ROME, Oct. 10 - With 44 million eligible voters in their teens and twenties in the United States, the so-called "Millennial Generation" makes up a crucial voting bloc. They break down to 61% white, 17% Hispanic, 15% black and 4% Asian.

John Cabot University students are a category of voters that are actively involved and engaged with global issues, connected through technology and constant communication.

In comparison with past generations, the Millennials have truly “rocked the vote.” Statistics reveal that voters aged 18-29 represent more than one-fifth of the voting population. Recent history reveals that the generation was responsible for the difference in the 2006 and 2008 primaries, according to recent “RocktheVote” data.             

The Millenials' concerns are vast this year, especially with the economy in trouble, rising gas prices and global warming fears. Fretting over grocery money and college tuition, college students will be hit hard. Maritza Janique Leal, a Public Relations major and study abroad student at JCU says, “whenever I have a chance to talk with my parents back home in Texas, I am always reminded by them of how poor the economy is doing. I am definitely nervous about the market and especially about trying to find a job next year.”  Apprehensions like these are common for upcoming college graduates.

Many student voters are well-informed about the upcoming presidential election through school events, family influence and fellow peers. However, American study-abroad students like those at JCU are at a geographic disadvantage. They are thousands of miles away from their home and universities.

Students are far away from the heart of the election, the constant buzz of media and discussions with friends or family. A recent “Rock the Vote” study reveals that “the most common way that young Americans keep track of this election and other news is by talking to friends and family.” With close friends and family so far, students must look into new resources to keep the election discussion alive.

Would being at home actually make a difference though? Michelle Carroll, a study abroad student and International Studies major says, "I am definitely up-to-date with the election, but all through my own efforts... because there have been few opportunities to discuss the topic in my class, as well as few school events." As a first time voter and witness in the election as a college student, Carroll, like others, feels disconnected from the election back home.

This semester, many study abroad students are independently digging for political answers for the election.   

As a result, many JCU students are forming opinions about the election independently as they await their absentee ballot. 

 

Comments

[study abroad england]

Well, it's every student right to broadcast their feelings. It's their way on telling the world on how they feel.

[Study Abroad Bangkok]

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[Study Abroad]

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