Turning 18 is a huge turning point in someone’s life. Most teens look forward to it, it’s more than just any other age or birthday. It’s the transition from being a person who has to have a parent or guardian do almost everything for them, to knowing how to call the doctor yourself, and signing your own lease. Becoming an adult is huge, with tons of changes. Changes in expectations and responsibilities. All sorts of new things. These are my top five things I find exciting about turning eighteen.
1.Voting
In all 50 states 18 year olds who meet all other requirements are able to vote! This is very exciting but also very important. It’s great to have young adults have the opportunity to vote in elections in their counties, states and in the big federal votes. As a young adult just starting out adulthood it’s very important to understand the importance of voting and the importance of what you’re voting for. Voting is a huge responsibility and a great privilege we get.
I’m very excited about voting because after taking an American Government class this year I learned all the important things I should and need to know about voting. I really feel that Hannah Mills, the American Government teacher, did a great job of getting us seniors excited about voting and being able to be a part of the process in the next elections.
2. Serve on a jury
I’m very aware that this sounds crazy. I think serving on a jury would be so interesting, what if you got an intense murder trial. I understand the fact that you have to show up and it can create annoying conflicts but i still think showing up to listen to a cool case would be fun. Now it’s not very likely, no, but I can honestly say that I’m still excited and hoping I get something entertaining. With all this said I will not be very hype if I get there and it’s a speeding ticket or an unpaid parking matter.
3. Run for an office position
Some states in the US allow an eighteen year old to run for a spot or position in office. Personally I’m not running for anything but, I think it would be very cool and honestly impactful to run for a position of importance like this. Having a smart, dedicated, ambitious, young adult would be so inspiring. It would also make a lot of sense. Having someone who is young put out a different perspective would be interesting. As I said I’m personally not doing this but if the government did reach out I have a couple suggestions.
4. Adopt a pet
I love animals. Being able to adopt my own without anyone else needing to be involved is great to hear personally. As adopting or purchasing any animal is a huge responsibility, who doesn’t love a cute tiny fluff ball! My house is going to turn into a zoo. I have a slight problem looking at cute dogs and not wanting to take them home. Maybe as an adult I will gain some puppy self control, not having the urge to take them all home.
5. Full drivers license
I’m personally not the world’s best driver. I wasn’t able to get my full license at 17 so I’m now able to get it at 18. Having a non restricted license means I cant get it restricted any more, they can just take it. I also now can drive past 12. I’m not up past 12 very often but after a late night concert it would be beneficial to be legally able to drive that late.
As a new adult I’m so excited. I’m very aware that growing up is hard, having to call and order my own food will be a struggle. As I turn from a parent-reliant kid to a self responsible adult, I’m very ecstatic about all of the news that comes with it. I feel very ready to take on my next chapters in life.
