On Saturday afternoon, May 16, First Lady Michelle Obama made her first commencement speech in front of 12,000 people at UC Merced in Central California. UC Merced is one of California’s smallest and youngest public universities, but the creativity and determination of the student body to woo Mrs. Obama through valentines, letters, and videos won her over to come and speak at the graduation of the senior class.

“Why did I choose the University of California Merced to deliver my first commencement speech as first lady? Well, let me tell you something, the answer is simple. You inspired me. You touched me,” Obama expressed.

“There are few things that are more rewarding than to watch young people recognize that they have the power to make their dreams come true. And you did just that,” Obama said. “Your perseverance and creativity were on full display in your efforts to bring me here to Merced.”

Throughout her 22 minute speech, Obama touched on the importance of serving the community. “Many of you may be considering leaving town with your diploma in hand, and it wouldn’t be unreasonable,” she said. “By using what you’ve learned here you can shorten the path perhaps for kids who may not see a path at all. I was once one of those kids.” Obama is referring to her beginnings as a working-class family in Chicago’s south side. It was this humble start in life that pushed her to succeed despite the odds against her.

Mrs. Obama’s appearance at the university was a huge endorsement for UC Merced, whose number of registered students is only 2,700 students. If the government donates enough funding for the university, the administration hopes enrollment numbers will increase by up to 25,000.

UC Merced has the highest percentage of students who are in need of financial assistance and like Mrs. Obama, are the first in their families to enroll in college. The student population is one of the most ethnically diverse in the 10 campus public system.

This is Michelle Obama’s debut trip to California as First Lady. Her visit boosted tourism for the recession suffering town, with a predicted $1.1 million generated from the number of tourists expected – around 25,000 people.