第一篇：米歇尔演讲
MRS.OBAMA:(Applause.)Thank you.Well, ni-hao.(Laughter.)It is such a pleasure and an honor to be here with all of you at this great university, so thank you so much for having me.Now, before I get started today, on behalf of myself and my husband, I just want to say a few very brief words about Malaysia Airlines Flight 370.As my husband has said, the United States is offering as many resources as possible to assist in the search.And please know that we are keeping all of the families and loved ones of those on this flight in our thoughts and prayers at this very difficult time.Now with that, I want to start by recognizing our new Ambassador to China, Ambassador Baucus;President Wang;Chairman Zhu;Vice President Li;Director Cueller;Professor Oi, and the Stanford Center;President Sexton from New York University, which is an excellent study abroad program in Shanghai;and John Thornton, Director of the Global Leadership Program at Tsinghua University.Thank you all for joining us.But most of all, I want to thank all of the students who are here today.And I particularly want to thank Eric Schaefer and Zhu Xuanhao for that extraordinary English and Chinese introduction.That was a powerful symbol of everything that I want to talk with you about today.See, by learning each other’s languages, and by showing such curiosity and respect for each other’s cultures, Mr.Schafer and Ms.Zhu and all of you are building bridges of understanding that will lead to so much more.And I’m here today because I know that our future depends on connections like these among young people like you across the globe.That’s why when my husband and I travel abroad, we don’t just visit palaces and parliaments and meet with heads of state.We also come to schools like this one to meet with students like you, because we believe that relationships between nations aren’t just about relationships between governments or leaders--they’re about relationships between people, particularly young people.So we view study abroad programs not just as an educational opportunity for students, but also as a vital part of America’s foreign policy.Through the wonders of modern technology, our world is more connected than ever before.Ideas can cross oceans with the click of a button.Companies can do business and compete with companies across the globe.And we can text, email, Skype with people on every continent.So studying abroad isn’t just a fun way to spend a semester;it is quickly becoming the key to success in our global economy.Because getting ahead in today’s workplaces isn’t just about getting good grades or test scores in school, which are important.It’s also about having real experience with the world beyond your borders –-experience with languages, cultures and societies very different from your own.Or, as the Chinese saying goes: “It is better to travel ten thousand miles than to read ten thousand books.”
But let’s be clear, studying abroad is about so much more than improving your own future.It’s also about shaping the future of your countries and of the world we all share.Because when it comes to the defining challenges of our time-– whether it’s climate change or economic opportunity or the spread of nuclear weapons--these are shared challenges.And no one country can confront them alone.The only way forward is together.That’s why it is so important for young people like you to live and study in each other’s countries, because that’s how you develop that habit of cooperation.You do it by immersing yourself in one another’s culture, by learning each other’s stories, by getting past the stereotypes and misconceptions that too often divide us.That’s how you come to understand how much we all share.That’s how you realize that we all have a stake in each other’s success--that cures discovered here in Beijing could save lives in America, that clean energy technologies from Silicon Valley in California could improve the environment here in China, that the architecture of an ancient temple in Xi’an could inspire the design of new buildings in Dallas or Detroit.And that’s when the connections you make as classmates or labmates can blossom into something more.That’s what happened when Abigail Coplin became an American Fulbright Scholar here at Peking University.She and her colleagues published papers together in top science journals, and they built research partnerships that lasted long after they returned to their home countries.And Professor Niu Ke from Peking University was a Fulbright Scholarship--Scholar in the U.S.last year, and he reported--and this is a quote from him--he said, “The most memorable experiences were with my American friends.”
These lasting bonds represent the true value of studying abroad.And I am thrilled that more and more students are getting this opportunity.As you’ve heard, China is currently the fifth most popular destination for Americans studying abroad, and today, the highest number of exchange students in the U.S.are from China.But still, too many students never have this chance, and some that do are hesitant to take it.They may feel like studying abroad is only for wealthy students or students from certain kinds of universities.Or they may think to themselves, well, that sounds fun but how will it be useful in my life? And believe me, I understand where these young people are coming from because I felt the same way back when I was in college.See, I came from a working-class family, and it never occurred to me to study abroad--never.My parents didn’t get a chance to attend college, so I was focused on getting into a university, earning my degree so that I could get a good job to support myself and help my family.And I know for a lot of young people like me who are struggling to afford a regular semester of school, paying for plane tickets or living expenses halfway around the world just isn’t possible.And that’s not acceptable, because study abroad shouldn’t just be for students from certain backgrounds.Our hope is to build connections between people of all races and socioeconomic backgrounds, because it is that diversity that truly will change the face of our relationships.So we believe that diversity makes our country vibrant and strong.And our study abroad programs should reflect the true spirit of America to the world.And that’s why when my husband visited China back in 2009, he announced the 100,000 Strong initiative to increase the number and diversity of American students studying in China.And this year, as we mark the 35th anniversary of the normalization of relationships between our two countries, the U.S.government actually supports more American students in China than in any other country in the world.We are sending high school, college and graduate students here to study Chinese.We’re inviting teachers from China to teach Mandarin in American schools.We’re providing free online advising for students in China who want to study in the U.S.And the U.S.-China Fulbright program is still going strong with more than 3,000 alumni.And the private sector is stepping up as well.For example, Steve Schwarzman, who is the head of an American company called Blackstone, is funding a new program at Tsinghua University modeled on the Rhodes Scholarship.And today, students from all kinds of backgrounds are studying here in China.Take the example of Royale Nicholson, who’s from Cleveland, Ohio.She attends New York University’s program in Shanghai.Now, like me, Royale is a first-generation college student.And her mother worked two full-time jobs while her father worked nights to support their family.And of her experience in Shanghai, Royale said--and this is her quote--she said, “This city oozes persistence and inspires me to accomplish all that I can.” And happy birthday, Royale.It was her birthday yesterday.(Laughter.)
And then there’s Philmon Haile from the University of Washington, whose family came to the U.S.as refugees from Eritrea when he was a child.And of his experience studying in China, he said, “Study abroad is a powerful vehicle for people-to-people exchange as we move into a new era of citizen diplomacy.”
“A new era of citizen diplomacy.” I could not have said it better myself, because that’s really what I’m talking about.I am talking about ordinary citizens reaching out to the world.And as I always tell young people back in America, you don’t need to get on a plane to be a citizen diplomat.I tell them that if you have an Internet connection in your home, school, or library, within seconds you can be transported anywhere in the world and meet people on every continent.And that’s why I’m posting a daily travel blog with videos and photos of my experiences here in China, because I want young people in America to be part of this visit.And that’s really the power of technology –-how it can open up the entire world and expose us to ideas and innovations we never could have imagined.And that’s why it’s so important for information and ideas to flow freely over the Internet and through the media, because that’s how we discover the truth.That’s how we learn what’s really happening in our communities and our country and our world.And that’s how we decide which values and ideas we think are best –-by questioning and debating them vigorously, by listening to all sides of an argument, and by judging for ourselves.And believe me, I know how this can be a messy and frustrating process.My husband and I are on the receiving end of plenty of questioning and criticism from our media and our fellow citizens.And it’s not always easy, but we wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world.Because time and again, we have seen that countries are stronger and more prosperous when the voices of and opinions of all their citizens can be heard.And as my husband has said, we respect the uniqueness of other cultures and societies, but when it comes to expressing yourself freely and worshipping as you choose and having open access to information, we believe those universal rights--they are universal rights that are the birthright of every person on this planet.We believe that all people deserve the opportunity to fulfill their highest potential as I was able to do in the United States.And as you learn about new cultures and form new friendships during your time here in China and in the United States, all of you are the living, breathing embodiment of those values.So I guarantee you that in studying abroad, you’re not just changing your own life, you are changing the lives of everyone you meet.And as the great American President John F.Kennedy once said about foreign students studying in the U.S., he said “I think they teach more than they learn.” And that is just as true of young Americans who study abroad.All of you are America’s best face, and China’s best face, to the world--you truly are.Every day, you show the world your countries’ energy and creativity and optimism and unwavering belief in the future.And every day, you remind us--and me in particular--of just how much we can achieve if we reach across borders, and learn to see ourselves in each other, and confront our shared challenges with shared resolve.So I hope you all will keep seeking these kinds of experiences.And I hope you’ll keep teaching each other, and learning from each other, and building bonds of friendship that will enrich your lives and enrich our world for decades to come.You all have so much to offer, and I cannot wait to see all that you achieve together in the years ahead.Thank you so much.Xie-Xie.(Applause.)
第二篇：米歇尔的演讲
Transcript: Michelle Obama's Convention Speech
September 4,2012
Thank you so much, Elaine...we are so grateful for your family's service and sacrifice...and we will always have your back.Over the past few years as First Lady, I have had the extraordinary privilege of traveling all across this country.And everywhere I've gone, in the people I've met, and the stories I've heard, I have seen the very best of the American spirit.I have seen it in the incredible kindness and warmth that people have shown me and my family, especially our girls.I've seen it in teachers in a near-bankrupt school district who vowed to keep teaching without pay.I've seen it in people who become heroes at a moment's notice, diving into harm's way to save others...flying across the country to put out a fire...driving for hours to bail out a flooded town.And I've seen it in our men and women in uniform and our proud military families...in wounded warriors who tell me they're not just going to walk again, they're going to run, and they're going to run marathons...in the young man blinded by a bomb in Afghanistan who said, simply, “...I'd give my eyes 100 times again to have the chance to do what I have done and what I can still do.”
Every day, the people I meet inspire me...every day, they make me proud...every day they remind me how blessed we are to live in the greatest nation on earth.Serving as your First Lady is an honor and a privilege...but back when we first came together four years ago, I still had some concerns about this journey we'd begun.While I believed deeply in my husband's vision for this country...and I was certain he would make an extraordinary President...like any mother, I was worried about what it would mean for our girls if he got that chance.How would we keep them grounded under the glare of the national spotlight? PBS NewsHour/YouTube
First lady Michelle Obama addresses the DNC after being introduced by military mom Elaine Brye, from PBS NewsHour.How would they feel being uprooted from their school, their friends, and the only home they'd ever known?
Our life before moving to Washington was filled with simple joys...Saturdays at soccer games, Sundays at grandma's house...and a date night for Barack and me was either dinner or a movie, because as an exhausted mom, I couldn't stay awake for both.And the truth is, I loved the life we had built for our girls...I deeply loved the man I had built that life with...and I didn't want that to change if he became President.I loved Barack just the way he was.You see, even though back then Barack was a Senator and a presidential candidate...to me, he was still the guy who'd picked me up for our dates in a car that was so rusted out, I could actually see the pavement going by through a hole in the passenger side door...he was the guy whose proudest possession was a coffee table he'd found in a dumpster, and whose only pair of decent shoes was half a size too small.But when Barack started telling me about his family – that's when I knew I had found a kindred spirit, someone whose values and upbringing were so much like mine.You see, Barack and I were both raised by families who didn't have much in the way of money or material possessions but who had given us something far more valuable – their unconditional love, their unflinching sacrifice, and the chance to go places they had never imagined for themselves.My father was a pump operator at the city water plant, and he was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis when my brother and I were young.And even as a kid, I knew there were plenty of days when he was in pain...I knew there were plenty of mornings when it was a struggle for him to simply get out of bed.But every morning, I watched my father wake up with a smile, grab his walker, prop himself up against the bathroom sink, and slowly shave and button his uniform.And when he returned home after a long day's work, my brother and I would stand at the top of the stairs to our little apartment, patiently waiting to greet him...watching as he reached down to lift one leg, and then the other, to slowly climb his way into our arms.But despite these challenges, my dad hardly ever missed a day of work...he and my mom were determined to give me and my brother the kind of education they could only dream of.And when my brother and I finally made it to college, nearly all of our tuition came from student loans and grants.But my dad still had to pay a tiny portion of that tuition himself.And every semester, he was determined to pay that bill right on time, even taking out loans when he fell short.He was so proud to be sending his kids to college...and he made sure we never missed a registration deadline because his check was late.You see, for my dad, that's what it meant to be a man.Like so many of us, that was the measure of his success in life – being able to earn a decent living that allowed him to support his family.And as I got to know Barack, I realized that even though he'd grown up all the way across the country, he'd been brought up just like me.Barack was raised by a single mother who struggled to pay the bills, and by grandparents who stepped in when she needed help.Barack's grandmother started out as a secretary at a community bank...and she moved quickly up the ranks...but like so many women, she hit a glass ceiling.And for years, men no more qualified than she was – men she had actually trained – were promoted up the ladder ahead of her, earning more and more money while Barack's family continued to scrape by.But day after day, she kept on waking up at dawn to catch the bus...arriving at work before anyone else...giving her best without complaint or regret.And she would often tell Barack, “So long as you kids do well, Bar, that's all that really matters.”
Like so many American families, our families weren't asking for much.They didn't begrudge anyone else's success or care that others had much more than they did...in fact, they admired it.They simply believed in that fundamental American promise that, even if you don't start out with much, if you work hard and do what you're supposed to do, then you should be able to build a decent life for yourself and an even better life for your kids and grandkids.That's how they raised us...that's what we learned from their example.We learned about dignity and decency – that how hard you work matters more than how much you make...that helping others means more than just getting ahead yourself.We learned about honesty and integrity – that the truth matters...that you don't take shortcuts or play by your own set of rules...and success doesn't count unless you earn it fair and square.We learned about gratitude and humility – that so many people had a hand in our success, from the teachers who inspired us to the janitors who kept our school clean...and we were taught to value everyone's contribution and treat everyone with respect.Those are the values Barack and I – and so many of you – are trying to pass on to our own children.That's who we are.And standing before you four years ago, I knew that I didn't want any of that to change if Barack became President.Well, today, after so many struggles and triumphs and moments that have tested my husband in ways I never could have imagined, I have seen firsthand that being president doesn't change who you are – it reveals who you are.You see, I've gotten to see up close and personal what being president really looks like.And I've seen how the issues that come across a President's desk are always the hard ones – the problems where no amount of data or numbers will get you to the right answer...the judgment calls where the stakes are so high, and there is no margin for error.And as President, you can get all kinds of advice from all kinds of people.But at the end of the day, when it comes time to make that decision, as President, all you have to guide you are your values, and your vision, and the life experiences that make you who you are.So when it comes to rebuilding our economy, Barack is thinking about folks like my dad and like his grandmother.He's thinking about the pride that comes from a hard day's work.That's why he signed the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act to help women get equal pay for equal work.That's why he cut taxes for working families and small businesses and fought to get the auto industry back on its feet.That's how he brought our economy from the brink of collapse to creating jobs again – jobs you can raise a family on, good jobs right here in the United States of America.When it comes to the health of our families, Barack refused to listen to all those folks who told him to leave health reform for another day, another president.He didn't care whether it was the easy thing to do politically – that's not how he was raised – he cared that it was the right thing to do.He did it because he believes that here in America, our grandparents should be able to afford their medicine...our kids should be able to see a doctor when they're sick...and no one in this country should ever go broke because of an accident or illness.And he believes that women are more than capable of making our own choices about our bodies and our health care...that's what my husband stands for.When it comes to giving our kids the education they deserve, Barack knows that like me and like so many of you, he never could've attended college without financial aid.And believe it or not, when we were first married, our combined monthly student loan bills were actually higher than our mortgage.We were so young, so in love, and so in debt.That's why Barack has fought so hard to increase student aid and keep interest rates down, because he wants every young person to fulfill their promise and be able to attend college without a mountain of debt.So in the end, for Barack, these issues aren't political – they're personal.Because Barack knows what it means when a family struggles.He knows what it means to want something more for your kids and grandkids.Barack knows the American Dream because he's lived it...and he wants everyone in this country to have that same opportunity, no matter who we are, or where we're from, or what we look like, or who we love.And he believes that when you've worked hard, and done well, and walked through that doorway of opportunity...you do not slam it shut behind you...you reach back, and you give other folks the same chances that helped you succeed.So when people ask me whether being in the White House has changed my husband, I can honestly say that when it comes to his character, and his convictions, and his heart, Barack Obama is still the same man I fell in love with all those years ago.He's the same man who started his career by turning down high paying jobs and instead working in struggling neighborhoods where a steel plant had shut down, fighting to rebuild those communities and get folks back to work...because for Barack, success isn't about how much money you make, it's about the difference you make in people's lives.He's the same man who, when our girls were first born, would anxiously check their cribs every few minutes to ensure they were still breathing, proudly showing them off to everyone we knew.That's the man who sits down with me and our girls for dinner nearly every night, patiently answering their questions about issues in the news, and strategizing about middle school friendships.That's the man I see in those quiet moments late at night, hunched over his desk, poring over the letters people have sent him.The letter from the father struggling to pay his bills...from the woman dying of cancer whose insurance company won't cover her care...from the young person with so much promise but so few opportunities.I see the concern in his eyes...and I hear the determination in his voice as he tells me, “You won't believe what these folks are going through, Michelle...it's not right.We've got to keep working to fix this.We've got so much more to do.”
I see how those stories – our collection of struggles and hopes and dreams – I see how that's what drives Barack Obama every single day.And I didn't think it was possible, but today, I love my husband even more than I did four years ago...even more than I did 23 years ago, when we first met.I love that he's never forgotten how he started.I love that we can trust Barack to do what he says he's going to do, even when it's hard – especially when it's hard.I love that for Barack, there is no such thing as “us” and “them” – he doesn't care whether you're a Democrat, a Republican, or none of the above...he knows that we all love our country...and he's always ready to listen to good ideas...he's always looking for the very best in everyone he meets.And I love that even in the toughest moments, when we're all sweating it – when we're worried that the bill won't pass, and it seems like all is lost – Barack never lets himself get distracted by the chatter and the noise.Just like his grandmother, he just keeps getting up and moving forward...with patience and wisdom, and courage and grace.And he reminds me that we are playing a long game here...and that change is hard, and change is slow, and it never happens all at once.But eventually we get there, we always do.We get there because of folks like my Dad...folks like Barack's grandmother...men and women who said to themselves, “I may not have a chance to fulfill my dreams, but maybe my children will...maybe my grandchildren will.”
So many of us stand here tonight because of their sacrifice, and longing, and steadfast love...because time and again, they swallowed their fears and doubts and did what was hard.So today, when the challenges we face start to seem overwhelming – or even impossible – let us never forget that doing the impossible is the history of this nation...it's who we are as Americans...it's how this country was built.And if our parents and grandparents could toil and struggle for us...if they could raise beams of steel to the sky, send a man to the moon, and connect the world with the touch of a button...then surely we can keep on sacrificing and building for our own kids and grandkids.And if so many brave men and women could wear our country's uniform and sacrifice their lives for our most fundamental rights...then surely we can do our part as citizens of this great democracy to exercise those rights...surely, we can get to the polls and make our voices heard on Election Day.If farmers and blacksmiths could win independence from an empire...if immigrants could leave behind everything they knew for a better life on our shores...if women could be dragged to jail for seeking the vote...if a generation could defeat a depression, and define greatness for all time...if a young preacher could lift us to the mountaintop with his righteous dream...and if proud Americans can be who they are and boldly stand at the altar with who they love...then surely, surely we can give everyone in this country a fair chance at that great American Dream.Because in the end, more than anything else, that is the story of this country – the story of unwavering hope grounded in unyielding struggle.That is what has made my story, and Barack's story, and so many other American stories possible.And I say all of this tonight not just as First Lady...and not just as a wife.You see, at the end of the day, my most important title is still “mom-in-chief.” My daughters are still the heart of my heart and the center of my world.But today, I have none of those worries from four years ago about whether Barack and I were doing what's best for our girls.Because today, I know from experience that if I truly want to leave a better world for my daughters, and all our sons and daughters...if we want to give all our children a foundation for their dreams and opportunities worthy of their promise...if we want to give them that sense of limitless possibility – that belief that here in America, there is always something better out there if you're willing to work for it...then we must work like never before...and we must once again come together and stand together for the man we can trust to keep moving this great country forward...my husband, our President, President Barack Obama.Thank you, God bless you, and God bless America.
第三篇：米歇尔北大演讲
Ni hao.It is such a pleasant and an honor to be here with all of you at this great university…Thank you so much for having me.And before I get started today, on behalf of myself and my husband, I just want to say a few very brief words above Malaysian(sic)Airline Flight 370.As my husband has said, theUnited Statesis offering as many resources as possible to assist in the search.And please know that we are keeping all the families and loved ones of those on this flight in our thoughts and prayers at this very difficult time.And with that, I want to start by recognizing our news Ambassador toChinaAmbassador Baucus…President Wang…Chairman Zhu…Vice President Li.Director Cueller, Professor Oi and the Stanford center…President Sexton from New York University which has an excellent study abroad program in Shanghai…and John Thorton, Director of the Global Leadership Program at Tsinghua University…thank you all so much for joining us.And most of all, I want to thank all of the student for being here today…and I particulary want to thank Eric Schafer and Zhu Xuanbao for that extraordinary English and Chinese introduction.That was such a powerful symbol of everything I want to talk with you about today.You see, by learning each other’s languagesMr.Schafer and Ms.Zhu and all of you are building bridges of understanding that lead to so much more.And I’m here today because I know that our future depends on connections like these among your people like you across the globe.That’s why when my husband and I travel abroad, we don't just visit palaces and parliament and meet with heads of state.We also come to schools like this one to meet with students like you.Because we believe that relationships between nations are not just about relationship between governments or leaders…they’re about relationships between people, particularly our young people.So we view study abroad programs not just as an educational opportunity f or students…but also as a vital part ofAmerica’s foreign policy.You see, through the wonders of modern technology, our world is more connected than ever before.Ideas can cross ocean with the click of a button.Companies can do business and complete with companies across the globe.And we can text, email and skype with people on every continent.So studying abroad isn’t just a fun way to spend a semester-it’s quickly becoming the key to success in our global economy.Because getting ahead in today’s workplaces isn’t just about getting good grades or test scores in school…it’s also about having real experience with the world beyond your bordersit’s also about shaping the future of your countries and of the world we all share.Because when it comes to the defining challenges of our timeyou do it by improving yourself in someone’s culture…by learning each other’s stories…and by getting past the stereotypes and misconceptions that too often divide us.That’s how you come to understand how much we all share.And that’s how you realize that we all have a stake in each other’s successbecause I want young people inAmericato be part of this visit.That’s really the power of technologyby questioning and debating them vigorously…by listening to all sides of every argument...and by judging for ourselves.And believe me, I know this can be a messy and frustrating process.My husband and I are on the receiving and of plenty of questioning and criticizing from our media and our fellow citizens...and it’s not always easy...but we wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world.Because time and again, we have seen that countries are stronger and more prosperous when the voices and opinions of all their citizens can be heard.And as my husband said, we respect the uniqueness of other cultures and societies.But when it comes to expressing yourself freely, and worshipping as your choose, and having open access to information – we believe those are universal rights that are the birthright of every person on this planet.We believe that all people deserve the opportunity to fulfill their highest potential as I was able to do in theUnited States.And as you learn about new cultures and form new friendships during your time here in China and in the United States, all of you are the living, breathing embodiment of those values.So I guarantee you that in studying abroad, you’re not just changing your own life…you’re changing the lives of everyone you meet.As the great American President John F.Kennedy once said about foreign students studying in theU.S., “I think they teach more than they learn.”
And that is just as true of young Americans who study abroad.All of you are America’s best face, and China’s best face, to the world.Every day, you show the world your countries’ energy, creativity, optimism and unwavering belief in the future.And every day, you remind us of just how much we can achieve if we reach across borders…and learn to see ourselves in each other…and confront our shared challenges with shared resolve.So I hope you will keep seeking these kinds of experiences.And I hope you’ll keep teaching each other…and learning from each other…and building bonds of friendship that will enrich your lives and enrich our world for decades to come.You all have so much to offer, and I cannot wait to see all that you achieve together in the years ahead.Thank you so much.Xie Xie.
第四篇：米歇尔北大演讲
今天上午，美国第一夫人米歇尔造访北京大学，并接受北大校长赠书。之后，米歇尔在北大斯坦福中心以“读万卷书不如行万里路”为开场进行了约20分钟的演讲。在米歇尔的演讲中，“留学”成为关键词。她化用中国古语“读万卷书，不如行万里路”，并结合自身经历现身说法，希望让更多青年人拥有留学的机会。
MRS.OBAMA:(Applause.)Thank you.Well, ni-hao.(Laughter.)It is such a pleasure and an honor to be here with all of you at this great university, so thank you so much for having me.Now, before I get started today, on behalf of myself and my husband, I just want to say a few very brief words about Malaysia Airlines Flight 370.As my husband has said, the United States is offering as many resources as possible to assist in the search.And please know that we are keeping all of the families and loved ones of those on this flight in our thoughts and prayers at this very difficult time.Now with that, I want to start by recognizing our new Ambassador to China, Ambassador Baucus;President Wang;Chairman Zhu;Vice President Li;Director Cueller;Professor Oi, and the Stanford Center;President Sexton from New York University, which is an excellent study abroad program in Shanghai;and John Thornton, Director of the Global Leadership Program at Tsinghua University.Thank you all for joining us.But most of all, I want to thank all of the students who are here today.And I particularly want to thank Eric Schaefer and Zhu Xuanhao for that extraordinary English and Chinese introduction.That was a powerful symbol of everything that I want to talk with you about today.See, by learning each other’s languages, and by showing such curiosity and respect for each other’s cultures, Mr.Schafer and Ms.Zhu and all of you are building bridges of understanding that will lead to so much more.And I’m here today because I know that our future depends on connections like these among young people like you across the globe.That’s why when my husband and I travel abroad, we don’t just visit palaces and parliaments and meet with heads of state.We also come to schools like this one to meet with students like you, because we believe that relationships between nations aren’t just about relationships between governments or leaders--they’re about relationships between people, particularly young people.So we view study abroad programs not just as an educational opportunity for students, but also as a vital part of America’s foreign policy.Through the wonders of modern technology, our world is more connected than ever before.Ideas can cross oceans with the click of a button.Companies can do business and compete with companies across the globe.And we can text, email, Skype with people on every continent.So studying abroad isn’t just a fun way to spend a semester;it is quickly becoming the key to success in our global economy.Because getting ahead in today’s workplaces isn’t just about getting good grades or test scores in school, which are important.It’s also about having real experience with the world beyond your borders –-experience with languages, cultures and societies very different from your own.Or, as the Chinese saying goes: “It is better to travel ten thousand miles than to read ten thousand books.”
But let’s be clear, studying abroad is about so much more than improving your own future.It’s also about shaping the future of your countries and of the world we all share.Because when it comes to the defining challenges of our time-– whether it’s climate change or economic opportunity or the spread of nuclear weapons--these are shared challenges.And no one country can confront them alone.The only way forward is together.That’s why it is so important for young people like you to live and study in each other’s countries, because that’s how you develop that habit of cooperation.You do it by immersing yourself in one another’s culture, by learning each other’s stories, by getting past the stereotypes and misconceptions that too often divide us.That’s how you come to understand how much we all share.That’s how you realize that we all have a stake in each other’s success--that cures discovered here in Beijing could save lives in America, that clean energy technologies from Silicon Valley in California could improve the environment here in China, that the architecture of an ancient temple in Xi’an could inspire the design of new buildings in Dallas or Detroit.And that’s when the connections you make as classmates or labmates can blossom into something more.That’s what happened when Abigail Coplin became an American Fulbright Scholar here at Peking University.She and her colleagues published papers together in top science journals, and they built research partnerships that lasted long after they returned to their home countries.And Professor Niu Ke from Peking University was a Fulbright Scholarship--Scholar in the U.S.last year, and he reported--and this is a quote from him--he said, “The most memorable experiences were with my American friends.”
These lasting bonds represent the true value of studying abroad.And I am thrilled that more and more students are getting this opportunity.As you’ve heard, China is currently the fifth most popular destination for Americans studying abroad, and today, the highest number of exchange students in the U.S.are from China.But still, too many students never have this chance, and some that do are hesitant to take it.They may feel like studying abroad is only for wealthy students or students from certain kinds of universities.Or they may think to themselves, well, that sounds fun but how will it be useful in my life? And believe me, I understand where these young people are coming from because I felt the same way back when I was in college.See, I came from a working-class family, and it never occurred to me to study abroad--never.My parents didn’t get a chance to attend college, so I was focused on getting into a university, earning my degree so that I could get a good job to support myself and help my family.And I know for a lot of young people like me who are struggling to afford a regular semester of school, paying for plane tickets or living expenses halfway around the world just isn’t possible.And that’s not acceptable, because study abroad shouldn’t just be for students from certain backgrounds.Our hope is to build connections between people of all races and socioeconomic backgrounds, because it is that diversity that truly will change the face of our relationships.So we believe that diversity makes our country vibrant and strong.And our study abroad programs should reflect the true spirit of America to the world.And that’s why when my husband visited China back in 2009, he announced the 100,000 Strong initiative to increase the number and diversity of American students studying in China.And this year, as we mark the 35th anniversary of the normalization of relationships between our two countries, the U.S.government actually supports more American students in China than in any other country in the world.We are sending high school, college and graduate students here to study Chinese.We’re inviting teachers from China to teach Mandarin in American schools.We’re providing free online advising for students in China who want to study in the U.S.And the U.S.-China Fulbright program is still going strong with more than 3,000 alumni.And the private sector is stepping up as well.For example, Steve Schwarzman, who is the head of an American company called Blackstone, is funding a new program at Tsinghua University modeled on the Rhodes Scholarship.And today, students from all kinds of backgrounds are studying here in China.Take the example of Royale Nicholson, who’s from Cleveland, Ohio.She attends New York University’s program in Shanghai.Now, like me, Royale is a first-generation college student.And her mother worked two full-time jobs while her father worked nights to support their family.And of her experience in Shanghai, Royale said--and this is her quote--she said, “This city oozes persistence and inspires me to accomplish all that I can.” And happy birthday, Royale.It was her birthday yesterday.(Laughter.)
And then there’s Philmon Haile from the University of Washington, whose family came to the U.S.as refugees from Eritrea when he was a child.And of his experience studying in China, he said, “Study abroad is a powerful vehicle for people-to-people exchange as we move into a new era of citizen diplomacy.”
“A new era of citizen diplomacy.” I could not have said it better myself, because that’s really what I’m talking about.I am talking about ordinary citizens reaching out to the world.And as I always tell young people back in America, you don’t need to get on a plane to be a citizen diplomat.I tell them that if you have an Internet connection in your home, school, or library, within seconds you can be transported anywhere in the world and meet people on every continent.And that’s why I’m posting a daily travel blog with videos and photos of my experiences here in China, because I want young people in America to be part of this visit.And that’s really the power of technology –-how it can open up the entire world and expose us to ideas and innovations we never could have imagined.And that’s why it’s so important for information and ideas to flow freely over the Internet and through the media, because that’s how we discover the truth.That’s how we learn what’s really happening in our communities and our country and our world.And that’s how we decide which values and ideas we think are best –-by questioning and debating them vigorously, by listening to all sides of an argument, and by judging for ourselves.And believe me, I know how this can be a messy and frustrating process.My husband and I are on the receiving end of plenty of questioning and criticism from our media and our fellow citizens.And it’s not always easy, but we wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world.Because time and again, we have seen that countries are stronger and more prosperous when the voices of and opinions of all their citizens can be heard.And as my husband has said, we respect the uniqueness of other cultures and societies, but when it comes to expressing yourself freely and worshipping as you choose and having open access to information, we believe those universal rights--they are universal rights that are the birthright of every person on this planet.We believe that all people deserve the opportunity to fulfill their highest potential as I was able to do in the United States.And as you learn about new cultures and form new friendships during your time here in China and in the United States, all of you are the living, breathing embodiment of those values.So I guarantee you that in studying abroad, you’re not just changing your own life, you are changing the lives of everyone you meet.And as the great American President John F.Kennedy once said about foreign students studying in the U.S., he said “I think they teach more than they learn.” And that is just as true of young Americans who study abroad.All of you are America’s best face, and China’s best face, to the world--you truly are.Every day, you show the world your countries’ energy and creativity and optimism and unwavering belief in the future.And every day, you remind us--and me in particular--of just how much we can achieve if we reach across borders, and learn to see ourselves in each other, and confront our shared challenges with shared resolve.So I hope you all will keep seeking these kinds of experiences.And I hope you’ll keep teaching each other, and learning from each other, and building bonds of friendship that will enrich your lives and enrich our world for decades to come.You all have so much to offer, and I cannot wait to see all that you achieve together in the years ahead.Thank you so much.Xie-Xie.(Applause.)
我今天来到这里，是因为我知道，我们的未来，取决于全世界像你们这样的年轻人之间的联系。
这也是为什么我们夫妇在国外访问时，不只参观宫殿和会晤国家元首。我们也来到学校，与像你们一样的学生见面。
因为我们相信，国与国之间的关系不只是政府或领导人之间的关系，它们是人民间―特别是年轻人之间的关系。
因此，我们认为海外留学项目不只是为学生提供的教育机会，还是美国外交政策至关重要的组成部分。
“读万卷书，不如行万里路”
你们看，通过现代技术奇迹，我们的世界比以往任何时候都更多地联系在一起。
思想可以通过点击按钮跨越海洋。全球各地的公司可以进行业务往来和相互竟争。我们可以与各大洲的人们通过短信、电子邮件和Skype进行沟通。
因此，出国留学不只是以开心的方式度过一个学期―它正迅速成为全球化经济中取得成功的关键。
因为要走在当今职场的前沿，只在学校里取得好成绩是不够的，还应拥有国境外的真实体验：对完全不同的语言、文化和社会的体验。
正如中国的一句古话所说：读万卷书，不如行万里路。
我想要说的是，出国留学绝不仅是改善你们自己的未来，它也关乎塑造你们的国家、关乎我们共有的世界的未来。
因为我们这个时代的决定性挑战一一无论是气侯变化、经济机遇，还是核武器扩散一一这些都是我们共同的挑战。
没有任何一个国家能够单独应对它们„„唯一的出路就是共同携手。
来自北京大学的牛可教授是去年的美国富布赖特学者。我引述下他的话，“最难忘的经历是和我的美国朋友们在一起。”
这些长久的纽带代表留学的真正价值，我很兴奋，越来越多的学生正得到这样的机会。
米歇尔现身说法谈留学
中国目前是美国人留学的第五大热门目的地。今天的美国，来自中国的交换生数量最多。尽管如此，太多的学生从来没有这样的机会，而一些有机会的学生则犹豫是否要抓住它。
他们可能觉得留学只是有钱的学生或来自某类大学的学生的事。或者，他们可能心里想，“嗯，这听起来很有趣，但它在我的生活中真正有多大用处？”
我理解这些年轻人，因为我在上大学时也有同样的感受。你们知道，我来自一个工薪阶层家庭，我甚至从来没想过留学。我的父母没有上过大学，我将精力集中在进入大学并获得学位，这样我就可以得到一份工作并养活自己。
对于很多像我一样靠奋斗才能读得起一个常规学期的年轻人来说，支付世界另一边的机票或生活费实在是不可能的。这是不可接受的，因为留学不应仅属于有一些背景的学生。
我们希望在所有种族和社会经济背景的人之间建立联系，因为正是这样的多样性让我们的国家如此充满活力和强大„„我们的海外留学项目应向世界反映美国的真正精神。
这就是为什么在2009年我的丈夫访问中国时，宣布了我们的100，000项倡议，该倡议旨在增加留学中国的美国学生的数量和多样性。而今年，在我们纪念中美两国关系正常化三十五周年之际„„美国政府实际上支持更多的美国学生在中国学习。
我们正将高中生、大学生和研究生送到这里来学习中文，我们正邀请中国老师到美国的尝较教授普通话，我们为希望留学美国的中国学生提供免费的在线咨询。美中富布赖特项目仍在加强，现有3000多名学友。
私人部门也在加紧工作。例如，美国黑石公司的主管斯蒂夫·施瓦茨曼正在资助清华大学模仿罗德奖学全（Rhode、Scholarship）的一个新项目。
“你不需要登上飞机才能成为公民外交官”
今天，来自不同背景的学生正在中国学习。以来自俄亥俄州克利夫兰的罗亚尔为例，她参加了纽约大学在上海的项目。像我一样，罗亚尔是家里的第一代大学生。她母亲做两份全职工作，而她父亲晚上工作以维持他们的家庭。谈到她在上海的经历时，她说：“这座城市充满韧性，它激励我完成所有我能做的事。”
还有来自华盛顿大学的腓力门·海尔，他还是孩子的时候，他的家人作为厄立特里亚难民来到了美国。谈到他在中国学习的经历时，他说：“在我们进入公民外交的新时代之际，留学是人民间交流的一种强大工具。”
“一个公民外交的新时代”一一我想不出比这更好的说法了，因为这正是我正在谈的，那就是普通公民走向世界。
正如我经常对美国年轻认说的那样，你不需要登上飞机才能成为公民外交官。
我告诉他们，如果你在家里、学校或者图书馆能上网，只要几秒钟，你就可以被带到世界任何地方，遇见来自每个大陆的人。
这就是为什么我每天都要发一篇旅行博文，里面有我这次中国之行的视频和照片―因为我希望美国的年轻人能成为这次访问的一部分。这确实是技术的力量―它打开整个世界，让我们接触到以前根本难以想象的思想和创新。这也是为什么信息和思想在互联网上、并通过媒体自由流动是如此重要。因为那是我们发现真理的途径，那使我们得以了解我们的社群、我们的国家和我们的世界到底在发生着什么。
那也是我们何以决定哪些价值观和思想是最好的―通过有力地对它们提出疑问，进行辩论，倾听各方观点，并做出自己的判断。相信我，我知道这是一个令人困惑而沮丧的过程。有大量来自我们媒体和公民的质疑和批评，而我丈夫和我位于接收端。这并非易事，但我们认为它的重要无可取代。因为我们一次又一次地看到，当所有公民的声音和观点都能得到倾听之时，国家会变得更加强大和繁荣。
正像我的丈夫曾说过的，我们尊重其他文化和社刽的独特性。然而，就自由的表达自我、选择自己所崇拜的东西，以及享有信息公开而言―我们相信那是地球上每个人与生俱来的权利。
“美国面孔”，“中国面孔” 我们相信，所有人都应享有实现自己最大潜能的机会，正如我在美国所能做到的那样。同时，当你在中国这里以及在美国了解新的文化、结交新的朋友之时，你整个人就是那些价值观的鲜活代表。
所以我保证，通过出国留学，你们不仅在改变自己的人生，也在改变你所遇到的每个人的人生。
正像伟大的美国总统约翰·肯尼迪谈到留学美国的外国学生时说的那样，“我想他们所教的比他们学到的还要多。”而对出国学习的年径美国人来说也是一样的。
对世界而言，你们所有人都是最好的美国面孔，和最好的中国面孔。每一天，你们都在向世界展示你们国家的能量、创造力、乐观，以及对未来坚定不移的信念。每一天，你们都在提醒我们，通过跨越国界，学会在彼此身上看到我们自己，和用共同的决心应对我们共同的挑战。
所以，我希望你们都会不断寻求这样的经历。我希望你们能继续受益于彼此，互相学习，同时建立起友谊的纽带，而这些纽带能在未来数十年丰富你们的生活，也丰富我们的世界。
你们大家都有这么多可以给予世界，我热切期待着你们未来的成就。
非常感谢。（据北京大学官方微博，演讲为英文，译文仅供参考）
第五篇：米歇尔北大演讲
MRS.OBAMA:(Applause.)Thank you.Well, ni-hao.(Laughter.)It is such a pleasure and an honor to be here with all of you at this great university, so thank you so much for having me.Now, before I get started today, on behalf of myself and my husband, I just want to say a few very brief words about Malaysia Airlines Flight 370.As my husband has said, the United States is offering as many resources as possible to assist in the search.And please know that we are keeping all of the families and loved ones of those on this flight in our thoughts and prayers at this very difficult time.But most of all, I want to thank all of the students who are here today.And I particularly want to thank Eric Schaefer and Zhu Xuanhao for that extraordinary English and Chinese introduction.That was a powerful symbol of everything that I want to talk with you about today.See, by learning each other’s languages, and by showing such curiosity and respect for each other’s cultures, Mr.Schafer and Ms.Zhu and all of you are building bridges of understanding that will lead to so much more.And I’m here today because I know that our future depends on connections like these among young people like you acrossthe globe.That’s why when my husband and I travel abroad, we don’t just visit palaces and parliaments and meet with heads of state.We also come to schools like this one to meet with students like you, because we believe that relationships between nations aren’t just about relationships between governments or leaders--they’re about relationships between people, particularly young people.So we view study abroad programs not just as an educational opportunity for students, but also as a vital part of America’s foreign policy.Through the wonders of modern technology, our world is more connected than ever before.Ideas can cross oceans with the click of a button.Companies can do business and compete with companies across the globe.And we can text, email, Skype with people on every continent.So studying abroad isn’t just a fun way to spend a semester;it is quickly becoming the key to success in our global economy.Because getting ahead in today’s workplaces isn’t just about getting good grades or test scores in school, which are important.It’s also about having real experience with the world beyond your borders –-experience with languages, cultures and societies very different from your own.Or, as the Chinese saying goes: ―It is better to travel ten thousand miles than to read ten thousand books.
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