Fanshawe College students are starting to take voting more seriously as the federal election comes ahead on Monday, April 28. While some people are certain of their decisions, others are not. But everyone has something to share.
“I plan on voting. I’m not actually sure when the election is, but I do plan on voting, yeah,” one student shared.
“I think affordability is a big problem for everybody. And I think whichever government would address that the best is the government that I would vote for.”
Many young voters still face challenges with accessibility and awareness. Some believe voting should be easier and more interesting. “I don’t know if we do voting here, but I think if we did like a voting station here at the college, that would help people. Maybe just have information booths for people wondering, you know, what the different governments represent and what they want to do in Canada.”
One student said they probably won’t vote because they don’t know enough about it. “Probably not, because I don’t know anything about the federal election. I don’t really pay attention to the news. I’ve never voted, so it would be my first time if I chose to, but I won’t since I don’t really know anything.”
They simply hoped that the result would bring about positive change. “I’d like to see someone nice get elected who will do good things for everyone because that would be good.”
They also pointed out the need for easier access to learning tools. “If there were places where you could learn more about this stuff instead of having to do your own research – accessible resources to everyone.”
For some students, voting is closely linked to their future, particularly after graduation. “Yeah, I am. Because the next four years are going to be very important. I’m probably going to be looking for work after I graduate. My program is three years means that chances are whoever I vote for will probably impact that. The tariffs with Trump down South are a very major issue… we need someone who’s able to manage that.”
When asked what was most important in the election, they gave a clear answer. “Canadian sovereignty, the tariffs, and climate change.”
It was clear that many students were frustrated with the rising cost of living. “Cost of living honestly is probably the big one. Someone making minimum wage can’t afford $2000 a month for rent. If those people can’t even support themselves… it’s not a good system. I feel like that’s something that needs to change.”
Another student spoke with confidence, saying they were going to vote. “Yeah, I’m voting in the federal election because it’s my responsibility as a Canadian citizen to make sure that I get my input to see the progression of the country. This is my second time voting federally.”
They aim to grow the national economy and rely less on the U.S. “Definitely Bill C-69. I’d like to see Canadians utilizing their resources more. Honestly, just policies that are bottlenecking our ability to expand our economy and improve trade internationally… and reducing dependency on America in general.”
For them, the solution begins with changing the way people think. “We need to reignite the idea of patriotism in this country. We focus on the issues, but we don’t focus on a lot of the beneficial factors that come with living in Canada.”
Some students kept their responses brief but powerful. “Yes, I am voting in the federal election because I think it’s my responsibility as a Canadian citizen.”
Many students say they want to cast their ballots and are carefully considering their options with just a few weeks remaining.
