Arianna Pattek, 19, graduated at the top of her class at Spanish River High School last year, and the Georgetown University freshman made it a priority to be a part of history. Pattek called on Sen. Mel Martinez and managed to procure inauguration tickets for herself and her roommate.
“I contacted Mr. Martinez’s office just after the election because I did not want to miss out on history. I was too young in 2004 to be truly engaged in the process and was not terribly pleased with the outcome,” she said.
Pattek said she wanted to do as much as possible this election to make sure her candidate came out on top and that most young people in her circle are of like thinking.
“I have absolutely noticed a spike in political interest and activism in young people. I think they are truly excited to be a part of the process and feel they actually have a voice,” she said.