Becoming an adult has responsibilities

Now that the year is coming to an end, most seniors are either 18 or will be soon.

With that age comes a lot of new responsibilities as well as adventures. It is, probably, one of the most exciting moments in a senior’s life.

Whether seniors are looking forward to voting, enlisting for selected services, or just moving out, there is a lot to be excited about when it comes to turning the adult age.

When 18 year olds are asked what is most exciting about turning that age, most of them will bring up gambling or buying items legally, but there is a lot more to turning 18 than some people think.

Going to the doctor is more confidential, and some parents may not be informed about the conversations between a doctor and their children.

Another thing an 18 year old can do is go to a tattoo shop and get a tattoo or piercing without parental permission.

Some seniors may also get engaged at the age of 18.

IMAGE / Charity Nolff
Dakotah Doman, senior, said turning 18 is not as exciting as people think.

A new adult can also donate plasma and make almost $400 a week after turning 18.

For Dakotah Doman, senior, becoming an adult has some negative side effects.

“Turning 18 sucks because it means that I am growing up and becoming an adult,” Doman said. “Plus, I have to call and set up my doctor’s and dentist appointments.”

Voting is a big part of becoming an adult, and this year’s seniors will be able to cast their first ballots in November if they are registered to vote.

Jury duty is one of the many aspects of becoming an adult as well, so keep a look out for your jury summons in the mail.

Missing jury duty will order you to report before a judge to show the reason why you should not be held in contempt of court for failing to appear for jury service. If you fail to appear, a bench warrant will be issued for your arrest and you can be fined or sent to jail.

Yes, you heard that right, jail.

IMAGE / Charity Nolff
Senior Kaitlyn Foco said “nothing has really changed” about becoming an adult.

In addition, turning 18 may mean your juvenile record — if you have one — is cleared, but if you commit a crime and go to trial for it, you will be tried as an adult.

Senior Kaitlyn Foco has taken note of the changes turning 18 offers.

“Nothing has really changed,” Foco said. But then she added, “I am also excited to vote, buy lottery tickets, and go to the casino.”

Some other things seniors can do when they turn 18 are buy fireworks, open a bank account, get a credit card, sue someone, sign a lease, and many more adult-related responsibilities.