Democrat Olivia Ferdon talks about social issues

Olivia Ferdon, a bubbly freshman math major from East Lyme, Conn., has already been very involved with both the UNH College Democrats and UNH Students for Obama. She’s always been interested in politics, and was heavily involved in Obama’s first presidential campaign in 2008, through efforts like phone banking. Ferdon even went to the inauguration in January 2009.


“I really felt that what I did made a difference,” Ferdon said. She added that seeing Obama elected was “one of the most rewarding things [she] could ever hope to experience.”

Ferdon said she enjoys being a member of both the UNH College Democrats and UNH Students for Obama, and she said she loves that they both share the common goal of promoting Obama and getting him re-elected.


Campaigning in a swing state has also been exciting for the freshman. As of right now, the race is very close; Ferdon knows this, and said that no matter the results of the election, she will be proud of the 15+ hours of work a week that she put into the cause.


“Our main objective is to get kids at UNH to realize that their vote does make a difference,” Ferdon said.


Ferdon is a staunch Democrat, but she especially identifies with the party’s platform in this election. She said that social issues like education, women’s issues and marriage equality are critical right now. However, she does feel that both parties have swept these issues under the rug.


“I know that foreign policy and the economy are really important, but I want to see candidates address the social issues,” Ferdon said. “They’re important to me, and to all young people. “

Ferdon cited the Pell Grant issue as an example.


“I don’t want to leave college with debt the size of a mortgage,” Ferdon laughed.


She said that the social issues are what keep young people interested and cause them to vote, as these issues affect everyday life.


While Ferdon is definitely knowledgeable and passionate about politics, she also plays the piano and guitar, rows crew, loves the arts and is the Hall Council President in Christensen.