What do you get when you take an awesome singing voice, exceptional stage presence, a good personality and put them all together?

Once upon a time, you may have just had a pop star or a super star, maybe a diva, or even a legend, but nowadays you get an "American Idol."

The popular reality TV show that crowns one talented singer as an “American Idol” is currently airing its fourth season and the new pop stars keep on coming. There is no telling what is in store for the future of "American Idol," although it seems to be strong as ever. But there are mixed emotions about the show among students as SF State. Some are fanatical about the show, some hate it and some could care less.

According to Nielsen Media Research, which compiles television ratings nationwide, more than 17.8 million households were tuned in to American Idol’s March 15 episode, making the show the number one watched television program that week.

On March 16, "American Idol" was seen in more than 16.5 million homes, making it the second highest in the top 20 watched shows that week.

So, how long do some SF State students think this run of success will last?

“I can’t even front," said SF State junior Marcus Sago. "I do like 'American Idol,' and I was addicted last season. But you know there is this reality TV fad going on now where people enjoy being able to watch somebody rise to stardom from nothing. I don’t think it will last. The show was so different at first, but I doubt it will make it past seven years, if that."

There are a few students who are positive that "American Idol" is here for the long haul, though.

“I’m an 'American Idol' fiend," said SF State sophomore Jeanine Holmes. "I watch it faithfully and I love it for so many reasons.

“I think it speaks to multitudes of people and it gives people a chance to make it big who otherwise may not get to. In a society that is so hyped on images and looks … I think 'American Idol' helps to change that.

“(Former ‘Idol’ champion) Ruben Stoddard is a big guy, but America chose him, which I think is great; and even (former ‘Idol’ winner) Fantasia (Barrio), America knew she was a young single mother, but she won. I just love that the show gives everyone a chance and is so diverse. I know the show won’t be over any time soon.”

For now, the possibility of making it big in the music business, landing a major record deal, working with world-renowned producers, and being branded with the title of “American Idol” will probably keep the show’s auditions packed for years to come.

Even the San Francisco auditions held for season four of "American Idol" at the Cow Palace last year brought out thousands of Idol hopefuls.

Tamara Manning, 25, a SF State black studies major, said she tried out for the short-lived reality music program “Pop Stars” a few years ago and she may try out for season five of "American Idol" later this year.

However, she said she is turned off by the fact that those who audition must sign a waiver, which she had to do for “Pop Stars,” that gives producers the right to use her image and name on TV however they see fit.

“Ultimately I want to have a singing career, but I don’t want to be tied down to any long-term contracts and I don’t want 'American Idol' to have the right to defame me by showing me in a negative light like they do many of the singers in the first few episodes,” said Manning. “I just want to see if I’ll make it on TV and then somebody may hear me and like me and want to work with me.”