For many students at Life University, the 2024 election is the first presidential election in which they are eligible to vote. Voting is an important right and duty of democracy, and there are some logistics to be aware of to make sure that casting your ballot is a smooth and judicious process. Tuesday, November 5 is the official presidential election day, but there are other days and ways to make sure your voice is heard and your vote is counted.

When and Where to Register

Voter registration is the crucial first step that must be completed to secure your vote. For college students, the location of where to register can be kind of tricky. Students living away from home for school have the option to vote based on their hometown address or their collegiate residence. Inside Higher Ed’s article “Where Do Students Vote—and Why?” details how many college students are not aware that they can vote in the state they are studying in as long as they have a physical address there, even a dorm.

If you live on campus and plan to vote in person, it might make more sense to register locally rather than in a hometown address. It’s usually more convenient than traveling to a hometown polling place. However, it may make more sense to vote from your hometown if you feel that your vote has more political sway there, or if there are local elections of importance. Regardless, be sure to check if and where you are registered if you are unsure or change your location if desired. If planning to vote in Georgia, you can check your status at the official My Voter Page.

In Georgia, registration is required by Monday, October 7. Georgia Absentee Ballots (mail-in ballots) must be requested by Friday, October 25. Early voting begins Tuesday, October 15 statewide.

Life University has hosted several on-campus voting drives and most likely will continue to do so leading up to the registration deadline. Keep an eye on upcoming events and happy voting!