Democratic presidential nominee Sen. Barack Obama hosted a conference call Oct. 4 with more than 60 college media outlets to discuss what students have at stake in this election.

Obama discussed affordable college tuition and after-graduation job placement, as well as several other initiatives that affect students.

He promised to help give young people greater access to the American dream by giving a tax cut to every American pursuing a college degree.

In addition to a proposed extension to the Pell grant program, Obama cited the Serve America Act and spoke of a $4,000 tuition credit for all students in exchange for 100 hours of community service – a proposal that has been criticized in the past for negating the ‘volunteer’ aspect of community service.

“I think one of the most important experiences young people can do is serve one’s country or community,” Obama said. “Part of what I want to do is remind people there are enormous opportunities to serve in government. We need the best and the brightest involved in
public service.”

For prospective college graduates, the future job market has gotten a lot of them engaged in ways they weren’t before, Obama said.

“These uncertain times will have a great impact on young people entering the job market,” he said.

Josh Earnest, deputy communication director for the Obama campaign, discussed the importance of voter registration – particularly for young people – saying they could be the deciding vote this election.

“There are a lot of states who voted for Bush that are now leaning toward Obama due to young people … which could alter the outcome of the election,” Earnest said.

E-mail Jonathan Morales and James Cannon II at news@unfspinnaker.com.