"It can get contentious when people really believe in something, so we try to avoid seriously discussing politics," Vallone said of Siefken, his ideological opposite. "Past experience means two things: one, we won't change each other's minds, and two, someone will get angry."

That doesn't stop them from engaging in the occasional rift over refrigerator space, dirty dishes, and girlfriends, however. Yes, college politics at its finest. One thing all four do agree on: young adults need to become more engaged in government.

For Casey's part, he continues to convince friends that the political process is more than scripted candidates and negative ads. "It's more than running for office and winning election. It's the study of public policy, the news, international relations," said Casey, who is busy applying to law schools.

Vallone's efforts to engage America's youth include giving talks at high schools, including his alma mater in Epping. "I have no illusions that I can do anything to change what is very much an overwhelming sense of disenfranchisement," he said, "but I hope to make a difference by at least making people aware that anyone can get involved and make change."

Siefken, who interned last year at the U.S. Department of State, wants to return to Washington, D.C. He might also consider another run for office. Flathers' public services includes an internship at the Goffstown Police Department, and he plans to get a master's degree in criminal justice. Vallone will complete his two-year House term and hopes to work for a 2004 presidential campaign before heading to graduate school.

While the roommates are heading in different directions after Saint Anselm College, don't be surprised if you see this party of four crossing paths again some day—who knows, maybe on the campaign trail.

1 | 2