Poll workers are essential to ensuring that an election is run smoothly. Having more poll workers at a polling place helps to avoid long lines, machine errors, and other hiccups that may inadvertently disenfranchise voters. Becoming a poll worker is a good way to not only be an active participant in our nation's democracy, but you can also get paid for it, making it an ideal job for college students looking to make some quick, extra money. Additionally, you might be able to forgo compensation and receive volunteer hours instead. Though poll work varies by local election offices, the general responsibilities for a poll worker are as follows:

• Before election day, make sure to vote as you might not have the chance to do so when you're working
• Attend all mandatory training sessions as required by your county
• Prepare the polling place by setting up voting machines and/or other required equipment
• Arrive early in the morning (around 6:00am) and commit to working the whole day until polls close (about 7:00pm)

For Georgia, in order to be eligible to work as a poll worker, you must:

• Be at least 16 years of age
• Be a resident or employee of the county in which you want to work
• Be able to read, write, and speak English

To apply as a poll worker, find your local election office which should contain more specific information and the application to apply.