First Lady Michelle Obama sat down with Nick Cannon and Seth Meyers on Thursday to speak with Howard University’s newest freshman class and answer some of their burning college questions.

About 250 students attended this “lecture”, and the whole thing is set to air next week on NBC’s Late Night.

When asked what they learned during their time at college, Obama said it “taught me I can do anything”, even though many told her that attending Princeton was “too ambitious.” But she realized that the opinions of others did not matter, and she could do “anything these people can do.” It is a promise and strength that has served her well over the years.

“I still carry that with me as first lady of the United States because there are people who think I shouldn’t be doing that either, and it’s been eight years, so stay confident.”

She went on to say how going to college is not just about getting a degree in a field that will earn you a lot of money. You have to love what you are studying. Furthermore, internships are an excellent way to break into your chosen field and provide “practical experience for their careers.” 

“My life is controlled by 20-something-year-olds,” she said, referring to her personal assistants who stood out from their respective White House intern groups. “It’s really annoying.”

Another thing to remember is that it is okay to fail sometimes, as long as you learn from your mistakes and try again.

“Failure is a part of success. No one got here in a straight line without failure. Everyone has had it, including the President, up and down,” Obama told the students. “The thing you can’t do is hide from your failures. Seek help when you’re struggling.”

Whether you seek that help from college administrators, a study group, or even your fellow interns, there is always someone willing to help and who wants to help you succeed!