While the last presidential race in 2004 was quite a big deal for me (since it was the first time I could vote), something about this year’s election has both excited and inspired me.

Sure, seeing signs that read “Vote or Die” as I walked across the politically-conscious campus of Howard University years ago was provoking, but this time is different.

Either way, the possibility of history being made is likely, with the country’s top two parties supporting Sen. Barack Obama as the country’s first black president for the Democrats and Gov. Sarah Palin as the first female vice president for the Republicans.

This year’s election is also more important to me than the last, because as an adult, I’m more aware of the issues that so many Americans face.

I’ve felt the pinch of the pocketbook at the gas pump, I’ve seen great minds filled with institutional knowledge laid off and, as a reporter, I’ve heard the heartbreaking stories about the loss of hope.

Regardless of what party or politician you choose to support, I hope that more young people and 20-somethings will think about their own American dream and definition of success… and then go vote.

(Photo credit: AP/Joe Amon; AP/ J. Scott Applewhite)