First lady Michelle Obama took part in College Signing Day activities in Harlem, New York yesterday. Obama, Common, Sway, Tracee Ellis Ross, Melissa McCarthy and several other celebrities encouraged high school graduates to attend college and make the most of it.

Obama’s participation with College Signing Day is in conjunction with the Reach Higher Initiative (RHI). The initiative encourages the youth to continue their education with college or university, community college, trade school, or with some form of higher education.

“We are so proud of everything you’ve achieved, and we don’t take the struggle for granted,” Obama stated the crowded room of excited teens. “The minute you get to college this fall, I want you to get right back to work. Today is the not the end of your journey. It’s just the beginning,” says Obama.

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