Young Democrats Watch DNC, President Obama's Speech

More than 50 students packed a small auditorium at Gleason Library at the University of Rochester to watch Thursday night's Democratic National Convention speeches.

The gathered for the man of the hour - President Barack Obama.

The event was organized by the University of Rochester College Democrats.

Many of the young, student Democrats said they thought President Obama needs another four years to fully reach his goals.

The young Democrats were able to get their first taste of a presidential election - one they can participate in.

"This is my first presidential election. I was only 16 when [President] Obama ran the first time," said Jenny Hansler, a sophomore who is a member of the U of R College Democrats.

Jenny Hansler hasn't seen enough enthusiasm this time around.

She thinks President Barack Obama's words to the nation will change that.

"There is just this general sense of apathy. People are just disillusioned right now and I think we need to get that excitement back up," said Hansler.

Many of these young men and women said they don't believe what the Republican party has said about change not happening.

"We have seen change start to take effect, we like what it looks like. It looks like being able to be on our parents health insurance until we are 26, it looks like doubling Pell grants. It's something really impressive for us," said Andrew Cutillo, University of Rochester College Democrats President.

Anthony Salazar is from Houston.

This freshman said this will be his first time voting for President but he thinks four years isn't long enough for the job.

"People shouldn't expect this man to save the world in four years, he needs a little more time," said Anthony Salazar, a freshman and Democrat.

Salazar is passionate about issues like health insurance.

He said until the Affordable Health Care Act passed, his parents didn't have health insurance and either did he.

He said now he is covered.

Also, Salazar said he is a gay man who one day wants to marry.

He favors President Obama's recent stance on marriage equality.

"I intend to marry some day and that is a right I think everyone should have. President Obama believes that, you know, and I think if he is our President, I honestly think in the next four years that is going to happen," said Salazar.

These young Democrats said they would like to see more young people start to participate in this election, no matter who they vote for.

A voter registration initiative was done on campus on Thursday - it helped more than 100 students to register for the November elections.