Election Day Anticipation Sparks High Energy Among Young Voters in the AUC

With less than eight hours remaining until the November 5 general election, energy amongst young voters in the Atlanta University Center (AUC) is at an all-time high. At Spelman College, students describe recent weeks as busy, exhilarating, and nerve-wracking.
“I would say that I feel nervous,” said sophomore Mariana Burgess, a biochemistry major from South Carolina. “This election is so important; it could really go either way. The platforms of both candidates will drastically impact not only Black people but women as a whole.”
Burgess, who opted for an absentee ballot in her home state, faced challenges with the process. “It’s been hectic. It took a while for my state’s department of voting and elections to send my ballot. I didn’t receive it until earlier this week, so I had to send it back quickly to ensure it would arrive on time,” she explained.
Students have closely watched Georgia’s role as a battleground state. For some, like Mary Okumodi, the decision to vote in Georgia was strategic. “I’m originally from Maryland, which is already blue, so I thought I could make a bigger impact by registering here in Georgia,” she said. “I really want Kamala [Harris] to win. I need her to win.”
Many in the AUC opted to vote early, aligning with the broader trend in Georgia, where over 3.7 million voters cast early ballots as of November 2nd, according to the Georgia Secretary of State’s office.
Despite her nervousness, Okumodi felt a sense of pride as a first-time voter. “When I put the card in, I felt so privileged and empowered, like I was making my ancestors proud,” she shared.
For Najja McGee, the election has stirred feelings of disappointment regarding the political climate. “I’m disappointed that someone representing the Republican Party can run with the behavior they exhibit on social media and in society,” McGee remarked. “It’s disheartening that this is what our world has come to.”
As Election Day approaches, students like McGee are eager for resolution. “I feel anxious; I just want to know who will be in office for the next four years,” she said.
With anticipation building across Spelman’s campus, November 5 marks the culmination of a year that has captured national attention. Regardless of the outcome, it’s a day students won’t soon forget.
“I just turned 18 two months ago, and I’m thrilled to be part of this moment,” Okumodi expressed. “I feel like this election will go down in history, and I’m honored to be part of that change.”