Even before President-elect Barack Obama won the presidential election, his better half, Michelle Obama, garnered nearly as much attention as he did.

Almost immediately after leaving her job as vice president of community and external affairs at the University of Chicago Medical Center to join her husband on the campaign trail, Michelle became an instant media sensation. Part of her appeal has been her strong, confident and unapologetic demeanor. Throughout the past few years on the campaign trail, she has shown she is fearless and committed. Her support for her husband and his journey toward the presidency has been unwavering. This is the side of Michelle that we hope to see continue into the White House.

Prior to her launch into the spotlight, Michelle proved she has the tenacity to identify what she wants and follow her dreams. She went from being a student in Chicago Public Schools to Princeton

University, where she studied law and sociology with a minor in African-American studies. After Princeton, Michelle was off to Harvard Law School. Upon graduating from Harvard Law, Michelle returned to Chicago and worked as a corporate lawyer at Sidney and Austin law firm, where she met Barack.

But true to her identity, Michelle soon realized that corporate law was not for her. She left the law firm to pursue a path of public service. The decision to leave her position as a corporate lawyer to follow a career path that brought her happiness exemplifies the strength and independence she will bring to the White House in her role as first lady.

Michelle comes across as an empowered woman, not as the product of years of Washington grooming. By staying true to herself and the messages she has portrayed, she has the ability to make a significant difference during her time as first lady. Her Ivy-League education and experience will allow her great insight. And as first lady, Michelle will be in the unique position to share that insight with the 44th commander-in-chief.

Although she has received some criticism for her intention to be “mommy-in-chief,” Michelle is in the perfect position to serve as a role model for working and stay-at-home moms alike. Her role as first lady is not paid, but Michelle will have her plate full, focusing on causes she has committed to, entertaining heads of state, maintaining the role of a consummate political wife and raising two young daughters-just to mention a few.

Even before moving into the White House, Michelle has accomplished an incredible feat. Now imagine all of the things she will be able to accomplish in her role as first lady. If she remains true to herself, Michelle will be able to tackle substantive issues including public school reform and benefits for military families, all while raising two beautiful daughters and being a loving and supporting wife to the country’s most powerful man.