By Miggy Aguilar and Melisa Rodriguez
Graphic by Maya Uribe
Voting season is here! CI is calling on students to make their voices heard by participating in the Ballot Bowl, a statewide competition in California to register the most student voters. Voting is one of the most direct ways to impact the future of your community, and your participation could help CI secure a win and represent what is important to you!
How to Register to Vote
Registering to vote is easier than ever. You can do it as part of your course registration process, or at any other time, through the Student Center.
Follow these steps:
- Log in to the Student Center (Look for the voter registration link on the homepage.)
- Click the Link (This will redirect you to the California Secretary of State website.)
- Fill Out the Form Online (Provide the required information, and your registration will be processed.)
It only takes a few minutes to complete, so do not miss this opportunity to make a difference!
Why Your Vote Matters
Voting matters because it gives you a voice in the decisions that shape your life and community. By voting, you can influence key issues like education funding, healthcare policy, environmental action, economic policy, infrastructure and social justice. When people vote, they have the power to make real change. Even in close elections, a single vote can make a difference—your voice counts. By registering, you help strengthen the student’s voice and show that young people care about the future.
Join the Ballot Bowl Competition
CI is competing against universities across California to see which institution can register the most student voters. Winning the Ballot Bowl not only brings recognition to our university but also demonstrates our commitment to civic engagement. Your registration is a step toward both personal empowerment and CI pride! If you’re already registered to vote or ineligible to vote, there are still ways you can support CI in the Ballot Bowl. Encourage your friends, classmates and family members to register. Volunteer for student-led initiatives focused on voter outreach. Share information on social media about the Ballot Bowl and why voting is important. Staying informed about upcoming elections also allows you to help others make educated decisions.
Important Information for California Residents
The General Election will take place on Nov. 5. Make sure you’re prepared with the following key deadlines and guidelines:
• Oct. 21: Last day to register to vote for the November 5 election.
• Oct. 7: Your county elections office will begin mailing out vote-by-mail ballots.
• Oct. 8: Ballot drop-off locations open statewide.
• Oct. 26: Early in-person voting begins at vote centers in Voter’s Choice Act counties.
• Nov. 5: Election Day! All vote-by-mail ballots must be postmarked by this date.
• Nov. 12: Deadline for vote-by-mail ballots to be received by county elections offices.
All registered California voters will automatically receive a vote-by-mail ballot, which can be returned by mail, at a drop-off location, or in person at your county elections office or designated vote centers. The CI designated ballot drop-off location is located directly in front of the police and parking services office at Placer Hall.
With your participation, CI can lead the way in voter engagement and community involvement. Register to vote today, invite others to join and help CI win the Ballot Bowl! Together, we can show the power of student involvement and ensure our voices are heard in this crucial election. Be part of the movement by registering today and encourage others to do the same. Together, we can help CI lead the way and make a lasting impact in our community!
Voting information here:
