Selfishly, working with kids gives me joy - it makes me feel like my life has a purpose. And I thought, Imagine what we can do in the White House, particularly with the kids in the D.C. area, many of whom have never set foot on the White House lawn.

There are still many causes worth sacrificing for, so much history yet to be made.

If my future were determined just by my performance on a standardized test, I wouldn't be here. I guarantee you that.

This is really what the White House is all about. It’s the “People’s House.” It’s a place that is steeped in history, but it’s also a place where everyone should feel welcome. And that's why my husband and I have made it our mission to open up the house to as many people as we can.

It's hard to make speeches with your hair in your face!

I never cut class. I loved getting A's, I liked being smart. I liked being on time. I thought being smart is cooler than anything in the world.

My priority will be making sure my family is happy and settled.