As young voters play a more significant role in the 2008 presidential campaign, college students around the country are feeling the importance to take a more active approach at the polls.

According to Jeff Diamond, a Political Science professor at Skyline College, voters under the age of 30 were the cause behind nominating Obama over Clinton, otherwise “Hillary Clinton would be the Democratic candidate today.”

Both Sen. Barack Obama and Sen. John McCain promise to bring about change with their campaigns.

“The McCain campaign is in a difficult position–calling for change, but offering policies which are much like what the Bush administration has advocated for the past eight years,” Diamond said.

The latest poll that CNNpolitics.com released shows that Obama leads McCain 44 to 43, released on Sunday, Sept. 7.

According to ASSC Senator Clarissa Williams, 19, Democrat, who openly supports Obama, this election is the longest she has ever witnessed.

Williams admits that this is the first time she has been actively engaged in politics, but feels that Obama is the best candidate for president.

“I support Obama not just because he’s black, but because he has a lot of qualities that will build up our country again,” Williams said. “Personally people need to understand that times are changing and a black president would be the ultimate change.”

As the election takes a new, and historic turn, with McCain choosing a woman, Sarah Palin as his running mate, students know it was a strategic move in order to influence the youth vote.

“[It] insults everyone that was voting for Clinton,” said Stephanie Yang, 21, an undecided voter. “It was a smart move in general, but the choice wasn’t smart for people that really follow politics and know the strategies. But McCain’s trying…”

No matter what political agenda there may be, the change that is promised on both sides will only take place through actively voting.

“The big question is, will they [college students] turn out in November, and if the primaries are any indication, this seems likely,” Diamond said. “But the key for many will be getting registered now.”

Students are encouraged to register to vote in this historical election. All registries must be turned in by Oct. 20 in Building 6.