My name is Scott Masom and I am 23 years old.

I am going to seek a degree in Converged Media

Broadcasting from the University of North Texas.

Motivation to be an Active Participant

1. My family. Voting is the best way to make sure that I am doing what I believe is best for my family’s future.

2. I think it is important to be active to change or keep laws in effect that you believe in. As I look into different places to live, having a state that aligns with my political and social views will make my life more enjoyable. I believe in keeping our 2nd amendment rights in Texas and would love to defend it in anyway possible.

3. Being an active participate will make you an active citizen. It is important to know the things happening in the political landscape and it helps change or solidify your own beliefs. For example, my thoughts on abortion solidified.

Things I’ve Learned

1. I was surprised to learn about how extensive the death penalty is, in not only our state, but the nation. I was not aware of how big of an issue the death penalty is in our government. The cost alone made me open my eyes and realize the impact that it truly has on, not only the life of the accused, but that of tax-paying citizens.

2. I would like to know more about what we can do about including the minorities in the political process. They have power with their voice but find it challenging to get their voices heard.

3. I found it fascinating how little we choose to spend. I see it as a double sided sward because once you go down the slope of spending, it becomes hard to stop. It is also something I enjoy about living in because we are so conservative in our views and beliefs.

Political Issue for the Future

I believe education is in need for more consideration. We are already at the bottom of the nation when it come to education. Our spending when it comes to education is at the bottom as well. Common Core is doing more damage than good, in my opinion. Education has become more about passing a standardized test instead of gaining actual knowledge .

Texas National Influencing

Without a doubt, it is immigration. If we do start cracking down on the illegals in our own state, national government would have to be on alert. The issue of immigration is at an all time high for this country and Texas has some control in this issue. I think because of having our sales tax being a main collective fund for our state, and they pay them, we do become hesitant on truly cracking down. Unless Texas decides on collecting a state tax or the national government drastically changes their stance, this issue will be in limbo.

Lessons I Will Take Away

1. A big lesson I learned was how influential media is to the population. As someone who is going into media, it gives me a good lesson in providing the most accurate news possible. Bias is easy but providing both sides of the argument and giving a clear explanation is key to good news.

2. How powerful interest groups are to our government. It isn’t enough to deal with government but find a group that holds a good standing on the issue you care about and start, or end, change there.

3. Learning that Texas is starting to look into alternative forms of energy. While oil is still king for our economy, finding alternative sources of energy is important to me. It will be a slow change but I think the future will be bright.