Some People Can Sleep Through Anything

Landing an Obama for commencement will earn your school headlines -- as will sleeping through that address.

George Washington University made a bet with the first lady to get her to attend their graduation -- the students completed more than 100,000 hours of community service so Michelle Obama delivered their commencement address. And she'll make another local graduation appearance Friday, for Anacostia Senior High.

Meanwhile, the University of Michigan, Hampton University and West Point were among the president's commencement addresses this year, but his most memorable may be last night's at Kalamazoo Central High School.

As he delivered his address to the senior class that won the 2010 Race to the Top Commencement Challenge, one student on stage behind the president and to his left struggled to keep his eyes open.

"First, understand that your success in life won't be determined just by what's given to you or what happens to you, but by what you do with all that's given to you," Obama said as the student's mouth opened wide to release a yawn.

He didn't look like the only one unable to focus, and the girl to his right even appeared to yawn almost in unison with him as Obama said, "That's my second piece of advice, very simple, don't make excuses. Take responsibility not just for your successes, take responsibility where you fall short as well."

At "Don't just hang out with people who look like you, go to the same church you do, and share your political views," the student's head had fallen back, his eyes apparently closed, for what looked like some good R.E.M. sleep. A few moments later, he was jarred awake by a round of applause, which he quickly joined.

Maybe Obama's personal meeting with students before the speech was enough. And it's a busy time of the year for high school seniors: They've got finals, proms, pranks and senior week plans to worry about. Plus, we imagine there were some great parties after the ceremony last night. Gotta grab your Zs when you can.
 

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