Barack Obama addressed supporters at a rally at the University of Cinncinati in Ohio on Sunday.
CINCINNATI, Ohio — At  6 a.m. 23-year-old Desirae’ Hosley awoke to the sound of a blaring alarm clock. She hurriedly brushed her teeth, dressed from the hamper and began the 10-minute walk in the chilly, dark November morning with her sleeping scarf still tied around her head.
Her early morning wake up call and industry earned her the 30th spot in line at Precinct 1A in the St. Paul United Church of Christ.
“I work a second shift job and I usually don’t even get up until noon, but this morning I got up before everyone in my house,†said Hosley. “This is history. Barack Obama showed me that dreams do come true and anything is possible and I want to continue the dream — my dream.â€
Ms. Hosley’s dream is to earn her bachelor’s degree from the University of Cincinnati.
For many students like Ms. Hosley shrinking availability of federal student financial aid, struggling parents and a tough job market have caused her to take a year long break from her studies to earn the money she needs to complete her B.A. in Communications.
A self-proclaimed political apathetic after the 2004 presidential election debacle, Ms. Hosley decided to vote in this election because she wanted to have a voice in securing her future.
“Barack Obama and Joe Biden are fighting to make college affordable for people like me through tax credits and the expansion of programs like Upward Bound,†said Hosley.  “If Obama’s tax credit was in effect two years ago or even last year, I’d have my degree right now.â€Â
Proposed programs like the American Opportunity Tax Credit would offer relief to to many American families that are unable to afford higher education for their children.Â
The universal and fully refundable proposed credit would ensure that the first $4,000 of a college education is completely free for most Americans, and will cover two-thirds the cost of tuition at the average public college or university and make community college tuition completely free.
“My dream may not be as big as Barack Obama’s, but I feel like our fates are linked,†said Hosley.  “If he wins, I win!â€