Michelle Obama and the Power of Study Abroad

As we celebrate Black History Month, it's the perfect time to reflect on the leaders who have championed the power of global education. One such leader is Michelle Obama, whose commitment to education and international experiences has inspired countless students—especially young Black students—to see the world as their classroom.

Michelle Obama’s Advocacy for Global Education

During her time as First Lady, Michelle Obama launched the Let Girls Learn initiative, a program aimed at expanding access to education for girls worldwide. She has consistently emphasized the importance of cross-cultural understanding, encouraging students to seek out experiences that broaden their perspectives.

In 2011, she traveled to South Africa and Botswana, addressing students about the power of education and global engagement. Later, in 2014, she launched the 100,000 Strong in the Americas Initiative, which aimed to increase student exchange programs between the U.S. and Latin American countries. Her message has been clear: global education empowers students to become leaders, problem-solvers, and change-makers.

Michelle Obama has often spoken about the significance of international experiences, On March 22, 2014, First Lady Michelle Obama delivered a speech at the Stanford Center at Peking University in Beijing, China stating: “Studying abroad isn’t just an important part of a well-rounded educational experience, it is also becoming increasingly important for success in the modern global economy. It’s also about having real experience with the world beyond your borders—experience with languages, cultures, and ways of doing business that are completely different from ours." Her words emphasize the importance of stepping beyond familiar surroundings and embracing new perspectives.

This Black History Month, let’s honor Michelle Obama’s legacy by encouraging more students to dream beyond borders and take their education global. Whether you’re considering studying abroad or supporting someone who is, remember: the world is waiting for you.