High school and college students will be making inspiration videos and competing this year for First Lady Michelle Obama to come and speak at their graduation ceremonies.

Obama announced last Thursday two video contests as part of her Reach Higher Initiative, which "encourages high school students to attend a four-year university, community college or a professional training program, said an article on StarTribune.com.

The first contest calls for high school students, teachers, and administrators "to create a video that urges students to file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA," the article said. "The second contest— the Near-Peer Mentoring College Challenge— asks college officials and student groups to submit a video that shows peer-mentoring and college-immersion programs offered on their campuses for incoming students, especially those from underserved communities."

Obama will speak at the winners' commencement ceremonies this spring, the article said. Contestants can upload their videos to YouTube of Vimeo, and "can also post their efforts on social media and using #ReachHigher."

The Reach Higher initiative, said an article on TheEdAdvocate.org, "supports President Obama’s 'North Star' goal to make America have the world’s highest proportion of college graduates by 2020."

"Once again, Michelle Obama is out there, urging our students to aim higher and continue their education," TheEdAdvocate said. "The First Lady is an outstanding role model for the youth of this country and her direct involvement with the Reach Higher initiative only supports her desire to help students succeed. I am confident that America will continue to have the highest proportion of college graduates by 2020 under President Obama and the First Lady’s leadership."

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Article by Kassondra Granata, EducationWorld Contributor