College is traditionally the period during which students solidify not only their professional goals in life, but their values.

We face adversity in our schoolwork, our separation from family and our newly-formed relationships with peers. These experiences shove us toward our future while shaping our minds.

The people we meet along the way, of all backgrounds and beliefs, play a crucial role in the strengthening of our own beliefs. As growing human beings, it is important to be exposed to this variety to be more knowledgeable about the world. 

Why shouldn’t this theory be assumed for political views? First of all, turn off the Netflix show you’re binging and turn on a news station. Immerse yourself in current events and understand the basic issues surrounding you.

Then, follow political news organizations on social media and watch their shows. Notice the plural there. Choosing one news outlet to subject yourself to as a young person is a mistake. Watch several to truly get a feel for all aspects of every situation.   

If you want to become a well-rounded individual, get out of your comfort zone politically. Start conversations with people with whom you disagree, and figure out why you believe what you believe. Only then can you solidify your views appropriately and fight harder to uphold them. We must replace the current system of going with the flow with going with what we know. 

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