Since grade school, we have learned the history of our country. Whether it is the Pilgrims, the Founders or the current Congress, the story of our nation and our struggles to form a system of government has been on repeat since we entered our education.

Civics class in high school spoke to the nature of a government for the people by the people. We've learned about the struggles of women suffragettes and organizers in the civil rights movement. We've studied countless stories of sacrifices and strides made by Americans in the hope that their children would have a better society to live in.

And what does our generation choose to do with all this knowledge that is passed on to us? Well, we certainly don't take it to the polls.

Voter turnout among young people is notoriously low, but there's no reason why it should be among Marquette students. Registering to vote in Wisconsin is extremely easy and you can even do so on Election Day. If you live in the residence halls or a university-owned apartment, all you need is your Marquette ID. If you live off campus, another form of ID and an electric bill will do the trick. The university Web site at www.marquette.edu/vote has all the details.

This year's midterm elections are extremely important, especially in Wisconsin. Not only are there congressional elections, but a close governor's race and constitutional amendment referendums have stirred up unprecedented debate. Even if you are not from Wisconsin, the outcomes of these races will have resounding national implications.

Nearly everything is affected by the decisions that members of Congress and state legislatures make. It's your job, your future. Those representatives we elect influence job training, health insurance, fairness in hiring, pension security and workplace safety. Elected officials make decisions concerning the air you breathe and the water you drink, the safety of your neighborhood, the health care you rely on, the justice system, taxes, education and nearly every other aspect of your life.

So why cast a ballot when you can play another game of "Halo" or read about the latest celebrity gossip in Us Weekly? A more accurate question is, do you really have something more important to do in those 10 minutes? People have given and continue to give their blood, sweat, tears and everything they have to ensure that Americans are able to vote for leaders and determine the direction of our nation.

To vote is to show that you recognize the struggles of the past, have an opinion on our nation's present course and sincerely care about our country's future. Do not let this opportunity to make your voice heard pass you by. You could spend two years until the next election regretting it.

Seifert is a senior in the College of Arts & Sciences.