TAMPA, Florida -- Being a college student during an election can be a very exciting time.
Just ask USF senior Lindsay Lewis. She loves politics and may one day, she says, run for public office. On Wednesday nights, you'll find her in a political science class at USF. She loves what she hears in class each week and is heavily involved in the Student Government Association.
Lewis can't wait for Monday when the university will be front and center in American politics for the Republican candidates debate. She told 10 News, "It is an awesome experience. Not many universities get the chance to have this national limelight shined on them."
The planning has been going on for several months. USF got the call back in November. They were told to get ready because the candidates were coming to campus in January.
It's another moment for USF to shine once again.
Students were hoping to be a part of the big night. They quickly learned that there would not be a lot of seats available during the debate.
Ultimately, it was a huge disappointment for students. They were hoping to have many tickets available for all students.
Lewis said, "There is some disappointment but, of course, the planning team, we really wished that the entire theater was going to be filled with students. But, realistically, that wouldn't happen."
Dr. Susan McManus says she sees a lot of promise in Lewis, who happens to be one of her students on Wednesdays. With a smile, McManus told us, "I can see her running for office someday."
With ease and an air of casual confidence, McManus talks openly with her students about politics. She also commented on the a large crowd of student tickets at the upcoming debate. "It is kind of sad that in today's era...there's concern about the safety of candidates."
McManus went to the University of Michigan and relishes her time there during a period in history when politics made the headlines on a daily basis. She says the same about her students at USF today. "This is a moment in history when students can say, 'I was at USF when this debate happened.'"
So, while there will be no students allowed at the debate, the Bulls bounced back.
The student government has an operating budget of $2 million. Nearly $20,000 will be spent on a viewing party, so that young people at least get the chance to be a part of the event. A large white tent has already gone up outside the Marshall Center on campus.
Lewis and others are hoping that the candidates will take a few minutes to mingle with students. After all, as McManus noted, it's the best way to get their vote.
Lewis smiled and said, "The opportunities that students will get to be involved in politics are amazing!"
The viewing party on Monday is open to the public and begins at 7:30 p.m.