Obama Speech to Students

Despite the opposition to the president's speech, Obama is able to relate to millions of children around the nation, and effectively encourage them to do their best. He begins with a warm and friendly introduction that allows the student audience to be more open to what he has to say. Immediately, Obama attempts to build his ethos by reminding everybody that he too had to go to school, and explains how hard it was. Throughout the speech, he uses the word 'you' over 190 times, constantly trying to empower students across America on a more individual level. The specific examples of students around the nation who have been persistent with their education, despite their situation, attempt to strengthen the pathos by appealing to the audience's emotions. I found it interesting that the president concluded by telling students that their education is not only important to themselves, but also to their country. This gives students a resason why they should always work hard. This speech was meant to inspire, and it persuaded why we should put our education first.