Michelle Obama is often referred to as the "forever first lady," and in a recent speech at Temple University, Obama revealed she thinks of herself in that way too, The Hill reports.
Obama was at the university for College Signing Day which celebrates the college bound signing their letters of intent.
“We have such high hopes for you," Obama said. "See, I am not one of those doubters. I know that you have everything it takes to succeed. I know you are me, and if I can be standing here as your forever first lady, then you can do anything you put your mind to.”
The comment was met with a rousing cheer from the crowd.
The forever FLOTUS also shared her own struggles with leaving her childhood home to pursue an Ivy League education.
“I didn’t know if I was smart enough,” she said. “I thought maybe I’m not good enough. Maybe I can’t keep up.”
She also shed light on life in the White House.
“Shoot, when Barack and I set foot in the White House, it was a struggle," Obama said. "There were a lot of people who told us that we weren't supposed to be in the White House, that we couldn't handle the pressure, that we weren't ready. So, I'm telling you, they will doubt you today and they will doubt you for the rest of your life."
Obama said students in her audience have what it takes to make it, and just like she and Barack did, they need to push past those doubting them. The former first lady also encouraged students to take advantage of their communities and ask for help when they need it.
“Don't be too proud to get the help you need. And know that you are never struggling alone. Everyone who shows up at college – I don't care how much money they have – they're concerned. They're worried,” she said. "So, you are not alone. And just remember, you have this community right here in your hometown that is rooting for you every step of the way."
Her message seemed to resonate with the kids who left the speech in awe.
“It tells us that urban students are not forgotten about," Tamir Harper, 18, said. "It's absolutely amazing. It tells us that we can continue to move forward."
His peers agreed.
"It was amazing," said soon-to-be Temple freshman Najah Siddiq. "I wanted to talk to her, but there was too many people."
"It makes me even happier to go to college," said Cameren Sullivan, who is headed to art school. "Every time I cheered for Michelle Obama, I got goosebumps."