First ballot, independent choices: Shawnee student prepares to vote
FOX23 News at 9 p.m.
ULLIN, Ill. (KBSI) — A Shawnee Community College sophomore is preparing to cast his first ballot Tuesday as the college encourages students to register and learn about the candidates and issues.
Jalen, a first-time voter, said he grew up watching his parents participate in elections but previously had little interest in voting himself. Following world events online and knowing he is now eligible to vote helped motivate him to participate.
He said he is taking time to research his choices and form his own opinions.
“Really taking my time to do my research like I am, you know, and really just making sure I make the right decision, you know, for myself,” he said.
Kevin Hunsperger, Shawnee’s executive director of public information and marketing, said the college held a voter registration event in September organized by student engagement coordinator Aaron King.
Students could access online registration resources, including information for those from outside Illinois. Hunsperger said students from Florida and Georgia were among those who registered.
The college also made fliers, pamphlets and voting information available in its commons, where students could scan QR codes to access online resources.
Hunsperger said helping students participate also means encouraging them to understand how their choices could affect their communities.
“We want students to make informed decisions and know exactly what is going on,” he said.
He encouraged students to research candidates and ballot issues rather than relying solely on party affiliation.
“Don’t just blindly vote for one side or the other, know what’s on the ballot and know the issues and know how that’s going to impact you or your family or your friends,” Hunsperger said.
Jalen said his preparation has been independent, rather than prompted by the college’s outreach. As he approaches his first election, he said he wants to make a decision for himself.
