(U-WIRE) UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. – In an effort to combat political apathy among young people, some Pennsylvania State University teachers are offering incentives to get students to vote.

Sociology lecturer Vanitha Dayananda, who is offering students extra credit for bringing in voting stubs, said it is important to note that it does not matter for whom the student votes; the point is that the students vote.

“I don’t want anyone to think I’m influencing their voting. The younger people are the most apathetic,” she said. “By giving them incentives, it helps them to improve their grade and helps them to exercise their democratic privileges.”

Students seemed pleased with the opportunity.

“I think it’s an added bonus and a good idea,” said Nicole Wendler, a sophomore in advertising. “I don’t think you can force people to vote, and if (the teacher) said your grade will suffer if you don’t vote, that would be wrong. (Students) should vote and want to make a difference.”

Even those who were not given the option to improve their grade by voting thought it was a good idea.

“It would probably encourage voting because students are very concerned about their grades,” said Heather Donald, a sophomore in communication sciences and disorders.

In some cases, out-of-state students can make a copy of their absentee ballot, or they can write a short essay.

International students or others who are unable to vote can also write a short essay in place of voting.

However, some students said they thought this was unfair.

“It would be harder for me to write a paper because my English isn’t very good,” Shu Tu Li, a freshman in division of undergraduate studies. “I think it’s a little unfair.”

Andy Banducci, College Republicans chairman, said he was uneasy about offering a reward for voting to students.

“The reward is getting to vote, getting to participate,” Banducci said.

“I think the results are going to be negligible. I don’t know how many people would vote just because they are getting points.”

Megan Green, College Democrats chairwoman, said she disagreed and encouraged teachers to offer extra credit for voting.

“It should make a big difference in voter turnout on campus. I think it’s great,” she said. “Whether you’re involved in spirit (if you cannot vote), or involved in the actual voting, it’s important.”

Political science professor Suzanna DeBoef said that while she is not offering any incentive to vote, she does think it could be an effective tool in encouraging students to get out and vote.

-Laurie Cataldo