I used to and at times feel apathetic about my country. I feel as though my little vote cannot make that much of a difference, but then I think of countries that don’t have democracy set up as conveniently as the United States and I reconsider my ability to impact my surroundings.

After spending a semester abroad in the Dominican Republic, I not only saw the United States’ influence on other countries, I also was thankful for where I came from. There was massive poverty in the Dominican Republic, not unlike here, however, I came in contact with it more while I lived there. The United States is a power house and many people enjoy knowing they live in a very well-to-do country. It should excite me, but instead I just keep thinking about the millions and millions of people that are affected by U.S. policy on a daily basis, simply for a little gain.

I think one of the reasons to get involved, or at least have an idea of what’s going on with the presidential election is really important. It is important to know what kind of thought process the person essentially in charge of where you live has, and how he or she will use it to better circumstances or create more polarity.

Being an American in America is great, but being an American abroad is embarrassing. I think that it is important for the next president to consider multiple effects when dealing with policy instead of gain for one country. I would rather have someone in office who can put themselves in the worst position and make a decision based on the effects it would have on a person who has a tough life everyday. A leader should be filled with respect, not just for their particular country, but honest respect for all of the individual people from all over the world as well.