In a emotional delivery, Michelle Obama recognized her parents as the driving force for her success and urged attending families, students, and faculty at The Academies at Anacostia to pursue higher education. She stated that if her parents hadn’t been behind her she would have never obtained the level of success she has achieved. She relayed the message to help encourage the student body to go after their aspirations.
“But I am confident that if you’re willing to show that kind of commitment and do what it takes, anything is possible for every single one of you. And you know why I’m so confident? Because I’m looking at you. I was watching you all. (Laughter.) And I see your strength. I know what you’re capable of. I know what kind of young men and women you are, and I want the world to know that”.
She encouraged the students to push beyond their comfort zones and to try and obtain the next level. She insisted that working hard and an overwhelming persistence are dominating factors to ascertain your goals. She also highlighted that another major factor is to surround yourself with like-minded individuals.
“If you want a life free from drama, then you can’t hang out with people who thrive on drama. (Applause.) You have to pick your friends wisely, pick your friends — surround yourself with people who share your values and your goals”.