Michelle Obama’s journey from a Chicago girl to a global icon

Some people are born legacies, and some create their own. Former First Lady of the United States, Michelle Obama, falls in the latter category. She is a trailblazer, lawyer, author, and global advocate for education, health, and girls’ rights.

Known for her authenticity and intelligence, Michelle Obama is loved globally. She is a role model not for her own generation, but for the ones who came before her, and the ones who are shaping the future.

The humble beginnings and career

Born as Michelle LaVaughn Robinson in 1964, she comes from Chicago. She grew up in a small middle-class family. From a very young age, she showed excellence in academics. She graduated cum laude from Princeton University with a degree in sociology and African-American studies.

Thereafter, she got her degree in law from Harvard Law School in 1988.Her career began at Harvard, as she specialized in entertainment law at the Chicago law firm Sidley & Austin. She also made sure to work in the sector of public service and community outreach. The former First Lady served as Associate Dean of Students at the University of Chicago, and later became Vice President for Community and External Affairs at the University of Chicago Medical Center.

Meeting Barack Obama and carving a path as the First Lady

Michelle Obama met Barack Obama at Harvard Law. Back then, he was a young summer associate. Their paths crossed as professional associates, but then their relationship grew into a lifetime commitment, with the couple getting married in 1992. Soon they embraced parenthood as they welcomed their two girls, Malia and Sasha.Life changed fast when Barack Obama went on to run for the presidential elections. After winning the elections, Michelle became the First Lady of America in 2009.

This big move in her life also brought in the pressure and the public eye. During her tenure, she also had to face racial discrimination and was often judged for her words, clothers and her confidence. Like many women, she also faced the unfair rules and silent expectations. Still, she did not make the choice to break or shrink herself and showed what a strong woman is capable of. She stayed true to what she stands for. She has often talked about healthy living, education, and the importance of young girls believing in themselves.After leaving the White House with her husband, she continues to inspire people with her books. She wrote books where she shared her life and motivated many. Her latest book, ‘The Look,’ was published in 2025.