Student's Orlando Sentinel Op-Ed Urges Preparation Before Voting
In an op-ed published in the Orlando Sentinel, Rollins College senior Aimal Irteza argues that voting is both a powerful right and a profound civic responsibility that demands thorough preparation and informed participation.
By Jo Marie Hebeler
October 24, 2026
Irteza emphasizes that while citizens entrust lawmakers with day-to-day policy decisions in a representative democracy, the quality of those choices fundamentally depends on the quality of the voters' own research. According to a March 2026 Pew Research Center survey cited in the commentary, "82% of Americans believe it is extremely or very important to stay informed about voting and election processes, while only 50% feel they are personally well-informed on the topic."
Amid an era of misinformation, disinformation, and confusing campaign messaging, the author stresses that voters must look beyond polarizing headlines and soundbites. Irteza advises citizens to consult primary sources, including news interviews, candidate videos, press releases, debates, and town halls, while cross-checking facts across multiple news outlets with different leanings.
To prepare effectively, Irteza recommends reviewing a sample ballot and researching candidates' platforms, public service records, and campaign commitments using nonpartisan resources such as Ballotpedia, the League of Women Voters' Vote411 guide, and official legislature websites. The author notes that voters should also carefully examine constitutional amendments using plain-language explainers and weigh all findings against their personal beliefs before casting a ballot.
Reflecting on local elections in Orange County, Irteza points to upcoming decisions involving a county mayor, clerk of courts, judges, a governor, a U.S. senator, and a congressional representative. As a student coordinator of Rollins’ Democracy Project, a student-led, nonpartisan civic engagement initiative, the author shares personal preparations for the November 3 election, noting plans to vote early and encouraging residents to verify early voting locations, which may differ from traditional Election Day polling places.
Irteza concludes that participating in the electoral process goes far beyond showing up at the polls. Meeting the collective responsibility of citizenship requires deep preparation, as the author notes: "preparation is how we honor the trust that comes with a single vote."
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