Analysis of a speech (Michelle Obama)

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languages, cultures and societies (II.11-12). Furthermore, "studying abroad is about so much more than improving your own future" (II. 14-15). With such an experience, there is a possibility to influence the future of countries and even the whole world (II.15-16). Besides, there are so many challenges that people have to handle and no country can solve the problems alone (II. 13-14). So studying abroad is about developing cooperation skills (1.21), "immersing yourself in one another's culture" (1.22) and "learning each other's stories by getting past the stereotypes and misconceptions" (II. 22-23). In order to keep her audience interested, she gives not only many arguments, but also many examples and thus presents everything figuratively. She mentions, for example, that we have to handle challenges (1.16). This is followed by examples of these challenges: "[...] climate change or economic opportunity or the spread of nuclear weapons [...]" (1.17). The problems are defined and everyone knows climate change as a challenge. Consequently, you feel a little more involved right away. Moreover, Michelle Obama mentions a Chinese saying: "It is better to travel ten thousand miles than read ten thousand books" (II.12-13). This saying summarizes well what she said before and leaves a strong impression. Since it is a Chinese proverb and she gave her speech in China, most people probably know it and understand her right away. It also lightens the mood a bit. What's more, she addresses her audience directly. She declares "your borders" (1.11) and "you do it by [...] yourself" (II.21-22). You think that you are meant and that you can change something, for example the future of "your countries" (1.15). She also structured her speech very well. It has an interesting introduction containing a comparison, "[...] our world is more connected than ever before" (II.1-2). This is followed by the main part with many arguments and examples, after which she summarizes the most important points again in the conclusion. In conclusion, Michelle Obama's speech was very successful. You felt familiar with her and the issues raised and you were directly prompted to study abroad to develop further. I think after this speech, many young students have at least considered going abroad.