Coach to Vote: Encouraging Participation and Leadership in our Democracy

Many of today's college students are paying attention to what is happening politically in the country, from local levels to the national stage, and they are concerned. Citing statistics from a BestColleges.com survey in this article in Forbes, Marybeth Gasman, professor at the Rutgers Graduate School of Education, notes that "students are worried about finding jobs, their future finances, and the growing cost of everything from housing to peanut butter." Although a disturbing 39% of students surveyed maintain trust in the nation's political system, it is heartening to see that nearly 80% of respondents plan to vote in the midterm election.

Students who engage with coaching gain particular benefits, many of which can build the initiative to take part in the political process: 

• Increased sense of agency

• Empowerment to take action steps

• The experience of using time and reason to think through a decision

• Encouragement to develop a vision for the future, and plan steps in that direction

Coaches, if you encounter students today on Election Day, consider asking targeted questions:

• Who among the candidates for office most shares your values -- and what are those values? 

• What changes would you like to see locally? Nationally?

• For this midterm election, what is your top issue of concern?

• How can you make a difference today by voting?

Sign up now for our 1-day online Introduction to Coaching class on December 2.