The United States takes time to commemorate Memorial Day on the last Monday of May. What does the holiday mean to you? For many people, it’s another well-deserved vacation from work or school. For others, Memorial Day ushers in the beginning of summer, sand, and t-shirts.

But when we really take time to think about it, Memorial Day is really a time to commemorate and honor the lives of the courageous men and women who died in the service of our country. While the holiday is a significant time for all citizens, it is a particularly important time for college students to reflect on what their freedom means to them.

This past Election Day, many college students became eligible to vote for the first time. With tuition costs rising and unemployment souring, the majority of Americans gave their vote to Barack Obama—the Presidential candidate who promised change. Regardless of what candidate they voted for in the last election, the fact that all citizens have the freedom to express their opinions in the voting booth is certainly very empowering.

As Americans, we have a responsibility to use our freedom of expression wisely. So, how do we exercise our right to state our opinions? By getting an education, we are preparing ourselves to think critically and make some tough decisions. College students celebrate Memorial Day and honor our fallen troops each day by learning, thinking, and growing. After all, informed citizens turn into informed voters, who then have the power to effect change.

If you’re a working mother who is attending college online or are a community college student who dreams of a better future, take heart in the fact that you are performing a huge service to our country by going back to school! Yes, the future of our country is dependent on soldiers, but it’s also reliant on our college students to keep America strong. Whether you plan on becoming a teacher, a nurse, or a plumber, your career training will keep our country running smoothly.

Over their lifetime, college graduates make about $1 million more than those individuals who just have a high school diploma. This means that college students have the potential to make a huge impact on our economy, should they choose to use their earning power wisely.

So, while our soldiers are busy fighting wars overseas, college students are using their education as weapons to fend off unemployment and debt at home. If you are looking to make a positive impact on our country or want to take a proactive approach towards improving your career, take control of your future by enrolling in college TODAY!