May 1st 2024.
Michelle Obama beamed with pride as she addressed this year's graduating class. The former First Lady had a special surprise for the D.C. High Schoolers on their College Signing Day - a part of her Reach Higher Initiative.
On April 30, nearly 2,500 students gathered at the Capital One Arena to celebrate their college acceptances and upcoming enrollments. But it was Obama's unexpected appearance that truly made the event unforgettable.
The event, organized by the D.C. College Access Program, was in collaboration with Obama's Reach Higher initiative. This program, which was first introduced during her husband's presidency, aims to inspire and support students in pursuing higher education. As a mother of two, Obama reflected on her own doubts and fears when she was in their shoes.
"I remember when I was in your shoes, and no matter how hard I worked to prepare, I had this little voice in the back of my head telling me that maybe, just maybe, I didn't belong," she shared with the thousands of attendees. "I know that it is easy to write yourself off even before your journey begins, and that's exactly why I wanted to come and talk to you all today."
Obama praised the students for their resilience, determination, and optimism in the face of the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic. She also urged them to use their voices in the upcoming election, emphasizing the importance of their perspectives in building a more just and equal nation and world.
"We need your perspectives to help us continue to build a more just and equal nation and world at this point," expressed the 60-year-old.
In addition to encouraging political activism, Obama also reminded students to submit their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) forms to ease the financial burden of college. She acknowledged the difficulties caused by FAFSA delays, which left many students unsure of which colleges they could afford to attend.
"There's still time," she assured them. "I know it's been a complicated year, but the FAFSA is your best shot at getting the money you're going to need to pay for school. And I cannot stress this enough."
Despite no longer residing in the White House, Obama continues to inspire and motivate young people to "reach higher" and make a positive impact in their communities.
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