Four years ago, young voters went to the polls in record numbers to elect Barack Obama as president of the United States. It was likely the first time we ever voted and our decision was one based off emotion — the power of his words, his passionate speeches and his vision for our country that represented how our generation would inherit the country. Obama inspired us and we gave him the worst job in the country –– a disaster to sort out.

On Tuesday, we will walk into the voting booth with four years of accomplishments on which to base our decision instead of pretty speeches.

For that reason, the Collegian endorses Obama for re-election so he can continue what he started. Four years is not enough time to fix the mess he inherited.

With Obama at the helm, our crippled economy has slowly improved. He has been a champion for us students in healthcare and education. In foreign affairs, Obama has proved himself to be a fearless commander in chief and globally respected ambassador. On social issues, Obama is on the right side of history, particularly with women’s health and GLBTQ rights. He also aided in the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” which allowed gay and lesbian military members serve openly. Obama has shown support of Planned Parenthood and other women’s issues.

In sum, he has lifted unjust barriers preventing minorities of all stripes from living freely.

As a second Great Depression loomed, Obama’s $840 billion stimulus bill saved 2.5 million jobs and spurred economic growth.

Obama’s health care plan has allowed us to be covered by our parents’ insurance until the age of 26. Without this burden, we can focus on finding a job and paying off our student loans. He increased Pell Grants for us and this summer he opposed legislation that would have doubled the interest rate on Stafford Loan.

Meanwhile, Romney’s plan to help the average college student seems oddly lacking –– his plan to help students pay for college is essentially to borrow from our parents.

This summer, an executive order halted the deportation of undocumented minors who entered the country under the age of sixteen and have lived in the U.S. for five years.

While it’s true the president’s domestic power in these instances is limited, whoever takes office next will likely get to appoint two Supreme Court justices. Romney would turn back the clock on our country, undoing decades of the work that has been done to make all men and women truly equal.