In 2008, political analysts found that, while the youth vote—those under 30--broke overwhelmingly for Barack Obama, it did not singularly tip the election in his favor. Exit polls from the 2012 election show Obama once again won the youth vote, this time by 67 percent nationally and 61 percent in swing states. Not only was the breadth of the youth vote integral to this election, but the depth, too, played an important factor. Exit poll data suggests that one in five voters on Tuesday was under the age of 30, with half of eligible voters ages 18 through 29 casting a ballot.

Students have a limited amount of time remaining to register to vote in Virginia.

According to the Fairfax County Office of Elections, mail-in registration or change of address must be post-marked by Oct. 15, and in-office registration forms will be accepted until 4:30 p.m. on Oct. 15.

Cameron Quinn, general registrar for the Fairfax County Office of Elections, said first-time registration must be received in hard copy, however, change of address may also be faxed.

Mason student Charles Bright, 25, testifies before the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors about the creation of a Mason voting precinct and polling location. The Board approved the ordinance which contained the change. (Kevin Loker) 

University Hall is the newest building set to open on the Fairfax campus. The bottom level of the building includes leasable retail space. (Jake McLernon)