Local Student Helping at Hofstra Debate

Huntington Station resident Melaine Morgan, 20, is a junior radio production major at Hofstra. She'll be assisting at the presidential debate Tuesday at the university. She graduated from a Georgia high school in 2010.

Question: How did you get interested in this debate?
Answer: I had an interest in this debate prior to hearing that Hofstra would be hosting the second presidential debate, yet finding this out only increased my interest. My family is always discussing this topic and are highly interested, so I have gained that same interest.

Q.: Are you registered to vote? Are you affiliated with a party?
A.: I am a registered Democrat.

Q.: Do you have a favorite in this election and if so, who?
A.: Do I have a favorite candidate? I have two favorites, Obama and Biden. I hope I get to meet them someday.

Q.: What are your duties tomorrow?
A.: I assist with the shooting and taping of television remotes, manage needs of crew/talent, maintain audience/crowds, etc.

Q.: Are other students around you interested in this event?
A.: The presidential debate is a hot topic of discussion here at Hofstra. Everywhere I go, I can't help but talk about it or overhear my fellow colleagues talking about it. Students are highly interested! Some students had never taken an interest in politics, but the debate coming to campus and the various signature events surrounding it have opened their eyes and made them more aware of its importance.

Q.: Will you actually witness the debate or be off to the side somewhere?
A.: As of now, I will only be where the news outlets are located. If I am lucky, I hope that I am given the opportunity to witness the debate first-hand.

Q.: Is there anything else you'd like to say?
A.: I am extremely excited about this event! I have never experienced anything like this, so it will be an experience I will have for the rest of my life! I thank Hofstra for taking part in this and giving its students a once in a lifetime opportunity like this!