Editorial - Upcoming election key for students

In less than 60 days, we will cast our ballots and decide who will lead our country for the next four years.

Now that both parties have wrapped up their conventions and made their case to the American people, it is time for you to begin making your decision.

As college students, Nov. 6 will mark the first opportunity to vote in a presidential election for many of us. It is important to take advantage of this opportunity – especially considering the historic challenges our country is currently facing.

From dealing with an economy still struggling to overcome the worst collapse since the Great Depression to ending the longest war in U.S. history, the monumental challenges awaiting our next president will define the next four years, and they underscore the importance of this year’s election.

Moreover, there are a number of issues that are particularly consequential for college students. It is of vital importance that students take the time to understand these issues and decide where they stand on them.

Student loans

As president, Barack Obama enacted a student loan reform bill, which will go into effect in 2014. One of the bill’s provisions mandates that recent college graduates do not have to pay more than ten percent of their disposable income on college loan payments. Additionally, after 20 years, remaining debt is forgiven. For those who go into public service, debt will be forgiven after 10 years. Mitt Romney has vowed to overturn this bill.

Health care

Another key issue this election is, of course, health care. In June, the Supreme Court largely upheld Obama’s signature overhaul of our health care system. This is another bill Mitt Romney promises to repeal.

So what would that mean for college students? Well, as a result of the health care bill, students can stay on their parents’ plan until they are 26 years old. Furthermore, insurance companies are no longer allowed to deny coverage based on pre-existing conditions.

Take this into account before you make your final voting decision.

Gay rights

In addition to ending the military’s "don’t ask, don’t tell" policy, President Obama has expressed his support for same-sex marriage. Romney has voiced his opposition to both same-sex marriage and civil unions.

Romney also opposes the inclusion of crimes that target victims based on sexual orientation in hate crime legislation.

Student loans, health care and gay rights are only a few of the important issues that will be decided in November.

Take the time to understand these issues and vote accordingly.