Your Education Is In YOUR Hands

With the start of a new school year, President Barack Obama took the opportunity to address students across America. On September 8th, the first day of classes, Obama delivered a light hearted and encouraging speech from the gymnasium of Wakefield High School in Arlington, Virginia.
His message is simple, work hard. Speaking directly to the nation's youth Obama challenged students to set didactic goals, take responsibility for their education and never give up. The President stressed the importance of responsibility for yourself, your education and in turn the development and future of our nation.
Setting the tone with a conversational, "how's everybody doing today?" Obama continued by relating to the usual back to school jitters and nostalgic feelings of summertime. Despite these adjustments, Obama makes it clear that in the following school year every student will be held to high expectations. In the past, President Barack Obama has spoke of the responsibility for teachers, parents and the government to help provide the best education possible, now its time for the youth to take responsibility. "At the end of the day, we can have the most dedicated teachers, the most supportive parents, and the best schools in the world – and none of it will matter unless all of you fulfill your responsibilities."
Education provides opportunity and the chance to further ones self and our nation. Obama promises that no matter what you want to be, an education is key to that success. The President encourages us to develop our talents so we "can help solve our most difficult problems."
And yes, we will all face difficulties on the way. Obama shared his own experience of growing up in a single family home and having to wake up at 4:30 for additional tutoring. He continued with three stories of perseverance and hard work from our peers, proving that anyone can overcome the obstacles hindering an education. Wrapping up his speech Obama reiterates that our education is in our hands "I’m working hard to fix up your classrooms and get you the books, equipment and computers you need to learn. But you’ve got to do your part too."
Following the Presidents address to the youth, a mixed bag of feelings came from teachers, students and parents. Some, in disgust by Obama's attempt to "brainwash" kids, refused to show the address to their children and students.
This outlandish claim can be refuted by former republican president George Bush's similar speech made a few years ago. But, overall the public seems to approve of Obama's high expectations. University of Tampa senior Sam Zappia feels "The speech sent nothing but encouragement and positivity to students and if that is brainwashing kids, so be it."