A high school senior from Prince William County, Penelope Nowell-Shortt, took the initiative to help her peers register to vote for the first time this fall. Recognizing that her own October birthday would grant her voting eligibility, she wondered if her classmates felt the same eagerness to participate in the electoral process.
With a keen interest in public policy and criminal justice, Nowell-Shortt balanced her college applications and school responsibilities while surveying fellow students about their registration status. After consulting with guidance counselors, she discovered that approximately 100 of her classmates would qualify to vote by Election Day.
To address this, she organized a week-long voter registration drive during lunch hours at Woodbridge High School. Her efforts paid off as 72 students registered to vote, marking a significant step toward civic engagement within her school community.
“It’s really nice that we can start a civic engagement,” said Nowell-Shortt, emphasizing the importance of not just voting in the upcoming election but also encouraging young voters to participate in future elections.
During the campaign, she conducted thorough research, enabling her to engage in meaningful, non-partisan discussions about the voting process. Many students were unaware of their eligibility, highlighting a vital gap in knowledge that Nowell-Shortt aimed to bridge.
Her personal connection to the issue is strong; her mother, a permanent U.S. resident, is not eligible to vote. This experience motivated Nowell-Shortt to emphasize to her peers the significance of their votes.
As Election Day approaches, she looks forward to casting her first ballot alongside her older brother, marking a milestone for both. “This will increase the political influence of our future,” she reflected, hopeful that her generation’s participation will make a meaningful impact on the future.
This story serves as a inspiring reminder of the power of youth initiative and civic responsibility. It illustrates how one person’s effort can ignite enthusiasm for democracy among their peers, ultimately contributing to a more engaged and informed electorate.
The active involvement of young people like Nowell-Shortt indicates a bright future for civic engagement, potentially leading to a generation that is more politically aware and active in shaping the society in which they live.