The up-and-coming 2008 presidential election has, more than any before it, seemingly caught the interest of America's younger demographic.

The increase in young-adult, and even non-voting youth, attention is credited to the occurrence of the war in Iraq, the economy effecting the lives of our younger generation, and the fact that, no matter the outcome, this election will be historic.

"For the first time in history a major political party has nominated an African-American as its presidential candidate. The Democrats have chosen Barack Obama who is both young and very charismatic," said Dr. Gary Rose, professor and department of Government and Political Science chair.

"At the same time, the Republicans have named an attractive woman governor from Alaska as their party's vice-presidential candidate. Regardless of who wins this election, history is taking place and the students apparently want to be a part of it."

This year has brought about a major change in the youth's involvement in the election. First off, there is more media coverage than ever before (some think almost too much) which has caught the attention of many.

"The appeal to the youth is that there's an actual change happening and young adults feel that by voting there's a chance that they'll be making a difference," said sophomore Emmy Comai.

Dr. Steven Michels, associate professor of Political Science and advisor to the College Democrats, agrees that having a younger presidential candidate is a big part of why younger Americans are becoming aware and involved.

"Obama is a compelling figure, who seems to have tapped into the desire for young people for something new," said Michels.

The media has played a big part thus far in the election. Though some people believe the media coverage is becoming over-done, you can't deny it has attracted more attention than ever.

"I would say that this election is different because of the media coverage. It has been so expansive and long, the media over-did it when they began coverage before the primaries, which got people involved early," said Comai.

"As far as candidates go, they are using old tactics such as negative and attack ads, but it's getting worse because of the large media coverage. They are becoming very exposed and it goes too far into their lives and their families which makes it unfair."

This boost of newly interested and concerned voters has been noticed in the very hallways of our university.

"Student interest at SHU can be observed through the extraordinary number of students who are signing up for my department's presidential inauguration trip," said Dr. Michels. "So overwhelming was the student response that I've decided to charter a second bus. This is a first. It's truly gratifying to see such student interest in a presidential election."

It isn't too late to take part in this year's election. If you have not already, you can register to vote at your home town hall and request an absentee ballot. This is your chance to be a part of history.

"The key will be to see if young people actually turn out to vote," said Michels.