Students all around the Triangle watched President Obama's speech but students at Southern High School got an in-depth look from a member of his administration.

EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson visited the school to join the students for the speech.

"It's a great opportunity for students and staff to hear directly from the Presidents office," said Principal Kenneth Barnes.

Jackson and the students listened to the President's speech, encouraging students like Monique Lawson to stay in school and prepare for the future.

"I have a rough life growing up but I know I can be anything I want to be," Lawson said.

Angelica Thompson said she was also inspired by the speech.

"Go to college and have a good future so we can make the world a better place," Thompson said.

Before the speech, Jackson met with a group of students involved with the newly formed Green Club which works to make the school more environmentally friendly.

"As EPA Administrator it's great for me to be here because they formed a green club," Jackson said.

She said the students' actions within this club and others at the school reinforce the President's message.

Many students at Southern High agree there was one aspect of the President's speech that stuck in their head.

"There's a lot of chance we're not going to be rappers or basketball players, singers. It's true so we really need to get ready for the real world," Thompson said.

Students and teachers said the speech and visit from Jackson will help get the school year heading in the right direction.