I am writing in response to the article that ran before spring break about the efforts of organizations, such as Students for Barack Obama and REPRESENT Penn State, in registering students to vote ("PA primaries to play pivotal role," March 6).

As a player on the Penn State football team, I feel that it is important for me to get involved at the school that shows their team so much support. I just wanted to express how important it is for students to vote. As college students, voting gives us an opportunity to have an impact on issues directly related to us like college tuition, employment and the economy.

Personally, I am opting to vote for Barack Obama because of his standings on issues that will personally affect my life as an American citizen. His stances on issues such as healthcare, Iraq, poverty, immigration, the economy and homeland security, amongst dozens of other important issues, are the reasons why I feel he is the right candidate for the presidency.

The Pennsylvania primary is coming up, and this year more than ever we are going to have a huge impact on the presidential candidacy. Deadline for registration is March 24, and you can register on campus at the HUB-Robeson Center and the residence hall commons. I encourage all students to try to get involved and most importantly make sure you vote, because your vote really does matter.

Lydell Sargeant

junior-kinesiology

Nittany Lion cornerback