When you ask your typical 18-year old what they are focused on during the year, the same answer probably comes up repeatedly: college applications, schoolwork, and finishing strong. A select few, however, had the chance to make a decision much larger than themselves: dictating the result of our nation’s election.

Over the past couple of weeks, some of Bishop Gorman students had the chance to participate in voting in this year’s elections. Whether it was picking a new house representative, a senator, or the President of the United States, the experience overall was unique and important. Whether it was in-person or by mail, all of the students had the same reaction when asked for how they felt voting for the first time: “life-changing.’’

There really is no blueprint for the feelings and emotions that come from voting for the first time. Dylan Unkelbach ‘25, recognized that the process of voting for the first time, especially at such a young age, was “pretty special.” He added that he “felt like he was making a change” and was “excited to make an impact on our country.” 

Bridget Keating ‘25 felt that the voting process was “exciting” and made her “feel like an adult.” She added that the process was somewhat nerve-racking at times, but in the end, she was “proud of herself.”

There is really no tell as to what the voting process holds for each individual. Having the chance to take part in such a historical election, especially while still in high school, is something that not a lot of people could say that they did. No matter how the overall results ultimately turn out, the experience itself is something unique, and in the end, these Bishop Gorman students can ultimately say that they played a role in helping to shape our nation for the years to come.