International views on the election

In my Mass Media Seminar today, my professor singled out our International and Fulbright students to see what they thought it was like being in America during the election. They had some pretty interesting reactions:

• Shock about how much people brag about exercising their right to vote. 
• “I went to the car shop and the woman was wearing an I vote sticker, I was like, whoa.”
• Surprise at how excited we were for the outcome.
• "In Russia, every time there is an election it’s the disappointment. It’s like the black day."
• Amazement that we are allowed to vote on so many issues we may or may not be informed on, and how long the ballots are with judges. 
• “It would be a big mess in my country if people have to make so many decisions and have that long sheet of paper. So many decisions, one day, it’s crazy!” 
• Indifference at the idea of a new president, because America won't change.
• "I didn't even pay attention to the election coverage because I don't think the outcome of voting will change what actually happens in America." 

I can't even imagine what it would be like to be in another country with a different electoral system!