Police barricades lined the streets and campus gates were closed. Politics came to Columbia University as Barack Obama and John McCain headlined the Service Nation Presidential Candidates Forum.

Thousands of students lined the steps of Low Library to watch the event on jumbotrons set up by the University.

"I don't hesitate to say that it's the presidential candidates that got me out here," said Ian Scheffler, a first-year student.

"I think it's really exciting that both Obama and McCain here so no matter what, the next president is on campus tonight," said SEAS senior and ESC president Peter Valeiras.

The event was billed as a nonpartisan reflection on civic responsibilities, but students couldn't help by cheer for their favorite candidate.

"For me, the most interesting part is definitely getting to see Obama finally come to Columbia," said Scheffler.

"I'm excited to see McCain; since he served our country, I want to see what he has to say about service," said Bronwyn Moreno, a sophomore in the College.