The First Lady on the Importance of Studying Abroad

Summary

The First Lady addressed students at a university in China, emphasizing the importance of studying abroad and cultural exchange. She highlighted the personal and global benefits of such programs, noting their role in fostering mutual understanding and cooperation. She acknowledged the efforts to increase diversity in study abroad participants and the support from both governments and private sectors. The First Lady also stressed the significance of open access to information and universal rights, encouraging students to build lasting relationships that will shape the future of their countries and the world.

Takeaways

• 🇺🇸 The First Lady emphasizes the honor of being at the university and acknowledges Malaysia Airlines Flight 370, offering support and condolences.
• 🇨🇳 She highlights the importance of building international relationships through student exchange programs.
• 🌍 The First Lady underscores the role of young people in shaping the future through cross-cultural understanding and cooperation.
• 💻 She notes the impact of modern technology in connecting the world and facilitating global business and communication.
• 🎓 Studying abroad is not just an educational opportunity but a key to success in the global economy and a vital part of America's foreign policy.
• 🛫 She shares her personal experience, stressing that study abroad should be accessible to all students, regardless of socioeconomic background.
• 🤝 The First Lady emphasizes the value of diversity in building strong international relationships and the importance of the 100,000 Strong initiative.
• 👨‍🎓 She highlights examples of American students benefiting from studying in China and Chinese students contributing to American education.
• 📡 She advocates for the free flow of information and ideas over the Internet, stressing its importance in discovering truth and making informed decisions.
• 🌟 The First Lady concludes by encouraging students to seek international experiences, teach and learn from each other, and build lasting friendships that enrich lives and the world.

Q & A

Who was the First Lady addressing in her speech?

The First Lady was addressing the students and faculty at a university, as well as various dignitaries including Ambassador Baucus, President Wang, Chairman Zhu, Vice President Li, Director Cueller, Professor Oi, and President Sexton.

What message did the First Lady convey about Malaysia Airlines Flight 370?

The First Lady expressed sympathy for the families and loved ones of those on Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 and mentioned that the United States was offering as many resources as possible to assist in the search.

Why does the First Lady believe that study abroad programs are important?

The First Lady believes that study abroad programs are important because they build bridges of understanding between cultures, enhance educational opportunities, and are vital to America's foreign policy by fostering relationships between people, especially young people.

How does the First Lady suggest technology has impacted global connections?

The First Lady suggests that technology has made the world more connected than ever before by allowing ideas to cross oceans with the click of a button, enabling companies to do business globally, and facilitating communication through text, email, and Skype.

What are some benefits of studying abroad mentioned by the First Lady?

The benefits of studying abroad mentioned by the First Lady include gaining real-world experience with different languages, cultures, and societies, which can improve personal success and help address global challenges like climate change and economic opportunities.

How does the First Lady address the issue of diversity in study abroad programs?

The First Lady emphasizes the need for diversity in study abroad programs, stating that they should not be limited to wealthy students or those from certain universities. She believes that these programs should reflect the true spirit of America and include people of all races and socioeconomic backgrounds.

What initiatives has the U.S. government undertaken to support study abroad in China?

The U.S. government has undertaken initiatives like the 100,000 Strong initiative to increase the number and diversity of American students studying in China, supporting high school, college, and graduate students to study Chinese, inviting Chinese teachers to teach Mandarin in American schools, and providing online advising for Chinese students who want to study in the U.S.

Can you give examples of individuals who have benefited from studying abroad in China?

Examples include Royale Nicholson, a first-generation college student from Cleveland, Ohio, studying at New York University’s program in Shanghai, and Philmon Haile, whose family were refugees from Eritrea, studying at the University of Washington and emphasizing the importance of citizen diplomacy.

What does the First Lady say about the role of ordinary citizens in diplomacy?

The First Lady says that ordinary citizens play a crucial role in diplomacy by reaching out to the world through the Internet and forming connections that transcend borders, contributing to a new era of citizen diplomacy.

What does the First Lady believe about the freedom of information and expression?

The First Lady believes that the free flow of information and expression is essential for discovering truth and learning what’s happening globally. She asserts that expressing oneself freely and having open access to information are universal rights that should be respected in every country.