Normally when new students arrive on Kent State’s campus and move in, their welcome packets include maps, calendars and basic information. However, this year these incoming students will also receive a voter registration form courtesy of the Undergraduate Student Government.

“It’s a commitment of (the USG) this year to increase student engagement in the political process,” said Kevin Papp, the organization’s executive director.

While it may seem like a waste of paper, the measure is needed. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, in the November 2008 elections, only 58.5 percent of the U.S population of people between the of ages 18 and 24 are registered to vote.

“I’m not registered currently, but I’m more inclined to now that they gave us the form,” said Shannon French, freshman English major.

Commuters and returning students will not be receiving the forms upon arrival, but that is “…only for right now,” Papp said.

“We ?nd the voting process very important,” Papp said, “And USG would really like to facilitate that process.”

Contact Katie Nix at [email protected].