Next Tuesday happens to be one of the most important days of the year, with each of us having the right to voice our opinion on whom should run our government. Yet, too many of us will probably go about our day as if nothing is out of the ordinary.

This is a big problem.

As a citizen of the United States it is our right, duty and privilege to vote. When fewer and fewer people vote, our democracy will not represent a vast majority of the public's interest. Since young people compose most of the State College community, they should exercise their right to determine who runs our local and national government.

Fewer people in our generation vote compared to previous voting age generations. What we need to realize is that we represent a large percentage of the voting age population and by not voting, our voices won't be heard. Those who think their vote doesn't matter simply need to look at Minnesota; the recent election of former pro wrestler Jesse Ventura into gubernatorial office was almost totally spurred on by the youth vote and his victory caught everyone completely by surprise.

Also important is the long run factor. We need to realize that the people who are elected into office next week will be making key decisions — like the amount of taxes we pay and what laws are passed protecting the environment — when we graduate and enter the "real world." Being apathetic now will have many more repercussions in the future than you may realize.

While everyone probably won't rush out to the polls Tuesday, they probably will spend the next four years complaining about the aspects of government that they don't find appealing. This is hypocritical. Considering we all have the power to make a choice, even if it is choosing the lesser of two evils in your opinion, if you don't vote now, you shouldn't complain about the decisions made in the future.

Other countries don't have the privilege to vote. Cuba, a communist country, is ruled by one man with complete power. Iraq is ruled by a dictator and Saudi Arabia is governed by a monarch. Some people living in these countries would give anything to vote because they would then have a voice in government.

We all have this right, but often take it for granted.

Even if none of the candidates fully agree with your values, at least take the time to evaluate where each candidate stands on the issues most important to you and exercise your civic duty as a citizen by casting your ballot.

Show Washington, D.C. and the local community that you care.