Ignoring politics is not only impossible but also disadvantageous. However, I definitely understand how tempting it can be to tune out all the political drama that goes along with an election or political debate, especially this election year. Yes, as a college student, you’re fairly young compared to those typically at the forefront of politics, and yes, some issues may not directly affect you at this exact moment in your life, but that does not mean politics as a whole is completely irrelevant to you.

After talking to fellow students and friends about their stances on politics, I’ve come to a few conclusions. First and foremost, respect is vital. Without mutual respect there can’t be a constructive conversation, and without a constructive conversation, no one learns anything. The ability to keep an open ear as well as an open mind is something I think is greatly lacking in the world of politics today.

Secondly, there is no black and white, right and wrong or true and false. We can compromise, and we must compromise.

I even find myself struggling with this problem. I have strong beliefs and opinions when it comes political issues, in this election year especially. However, I am also allowing myself to listen and evolve. You don’t need to change your morals based on what someone else says, but do try to make sure you see all sides of an issue. Listening to others’ opinions gives you the opportunity to learn more and adjust your own beliefs, or decide to maintain your own non-negotiable stances.

It’s also smart to avoid becoming that loud mouth, extremely opinionated, yet somehow equally uninformed person who throws their opinions all over social media as if the government is implementing their ideas straight from their Twitter page. Twitter posts and memes about politics can be funny, but they can also be disrespectful, as well as plain insensible. Especially with the controversy of this year’s upcoming election, it’s nearly impossible to avoid seeing political propaganda as you scroll through your social media. As college students, social media is very much integrated into our daily life. It often becomes a place to spread anger and disdain for certain political positions instead of a place to learn more and access information.

Too often, I come across peers talking about how much they hate politics. Like most hatred, however, it stems from a lack of knowledge. Ignorance is not bliss when it comes to politics. The more you know, the more you can act. While not all of the issues discussed may have a direct impact on your life at this very moment, that does not mean you should just be tuning it out.

As much as some of us would like to deny it, the world doesn’t completely revolve around us. Learn something about someone else. Care about an issue that doesn’t necessarily benefit you. Have conversations with opposite-minded people. Have conversations with like-minded people. Watch the news. Read the news. Get involved. Don’t be afraid to change your mind. Be respectful. Politics is only a sour subject if we make it one. You’re not too young. It’s relevant and extremely prevalent. At the very least, give it the old college try.

Sam Miner can be reached samanthaminer@gmail.com