Michelle Obama (michelleobama / 01.05.2021): Happy #CollegeSigningDay! I just wanted to take a moment to let you know how proud I am of each and every one of you celebrating today. Today, were recognizing your hard work and dedication as you take this next step on your journey to and through higher education. And I know this hasnt been the easiest year, but Ive been so inspired that, despite all of the obstacles in your way, you pushed through it all. Getting your education is an incredible accomplishment, especially when you think about how it wasnt that long ago that so many students were denied the opportunity to do so. I was reminded of that when I saw the painting pictured right behind me. It tells the story of Ruby Bridges, who at the age of six, was one of the first Black students to integrate a public school in New Orleans. Parents actually pulled their children out of that school in protest. People retaliated against her family. Her father lost his job. And only one teacher at that entire school would agree to teach her. But Ruby and her family refused to back down. So for an entire year, she sat all alone, a class of one, dutifully learning her lessons. Now, weve come a long way since Ruby was a little girl. But weve still got a long road in front of us. And every single one of you out there thats pushing yourself through all the adversity youve faced especially this year is helping to build a brighter future, not just for you but for all of us. Thats why we celebrate College Signing Day. This year, Im wearing a shirt from Clark Atlanta University, one of our incredible historically Black colleges and universities. So whether you're going to a community college, trade school, university, or joining the military, I could not be more proud of you. Make sure to share where youre planning to go this fall using #CollegeSigningDay. Then click the link in my bio at 2pm ET to join @BetterMakeRoom and me for our virtual celebration featuring some very special g