In Philadelphia Speech, President Obama Welcomes U.S. Children Back To School

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President Obama traveled to Philadelphia today, to the Masterman School in Center City, to deliver the second "back-to-school" speech of his administration.

"As he did last year, Obama urged them to study hard, stay in school, and do their homework," NPR's Scott Horlsley reports.

"Excelling, whether it's in school or in life, isn't mainly about being smarter than everybody else," the president said. "That's not really the secret to success. It's about working harder than everybody else."

Don’t avoid new challenges – seek them out, step out of your comfort zone, and don’t be afraid to ask for help; your teachers and family are there to guide you. Don’t feel discouraged or give up if you don’t succeed at something – try it again, and learn from your mistakes. Don’t feel threatened if your friends are doing well; be proud of them, and see what lessons you can draw from what they’re doing right.

According to NPR's Claudio Sanchez, he told a group of students that life is not about being smarter than everybody else.

"Nobody gets to write your destiny but you," the president said. "Your future is in your hands."

Your life is what you make of it. And nothing – absolutely nothing – is beyond your reach. So long as you’re willing to dream big. So long as you’re willing to work hard. So long as you’re willing to stay focused on your education.

That last part is absolutely essential – because an education has never been more important. I’m sure there will be times in the months ahead when you’re staying up late cramming for a test, or dragging yourselves out of bed on a rainy morning, and wondering if it’s all worth it. Let me tell you, there is no question about it. Nothing will have as great an impact on your success in life as your education.

The president's speech was broadcast to schools across the country, and unlike last year's address, this one attracted less controversy. Copyright 2010 National Public Radio. To see more, visit http://www.npr.org/.

Link to Original Article on NPR.org