???To celebrate the start of Barack Obama's presidency, students gathered in the Student Union Theater and in Norton Hall room 17 to witness history. Those in attendance stood as Obama was sworn into office.
???An estimated 3 million people reportedly traveled to Washington, D.C. to watch the inauguration ceremonies.
???"It's just incredible," said Melany Piech, a research assistant for the school of nursing. "There's two miles full of people; it certainly speaks for his popularity."
???Obama's popularity was obvious as the millions of supporters waved American flags and stood in the cold January weather to wait and watch as he became the 44th president.
???"I couldn't believe how many people were there," said Lynnette Baker, a junior health and human services major. "It proves to me that this nation can unite for a common cause and their longing for change."
???Watching the performers and speakers were not only Obama and family, but also hundreds of thousands of supporters who made their way to the Washington National Mall, where they braved the cold and watched on as history was made at the same place Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once had a dream.
???"I thought his speech very exciting," Piech said. "He expressed great optimism, and told us that we can get through these challenges together."
???Supporters were thoroughly impressed by the new president and seemingly unconcerned that the event was one of the most expensive in American history.
???"The parties might be a little pricey," said Richard Hunte, a freshman biomedical sciences major. "But I'd say it is well worth it, they might as well go all in."
???According to Lynnette Baker, the price may be a bit over the top, but this election was important to for many people. Voters are going to celebrate the change, even if it costs them, she said.
???Change is what Obama promised throughout his campaign, and his diplomacy is long overdue, according to Piech. Obama being elected is a positive step in the right direction within the system of representative democracy, she said.
???"I think he's the real deal," Hunte said. "I think we need to be patient, but he is definitely the right guy for the job."
???For students, this inauguration was a historic moment in their lives.
"One of the most historical campaigns in the world," Baker said. "It will be remembered for a very long time."
???According to Hunte, people have already begun saving newspapers and magazines with the new president's face on them.
???"This has a great personal impact on me," Hunte said. "It shows what people are capable of doing, no matter what race or color or size a person is with enough hard work and dedication, we can get anywhere."
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
