Forget about your political leanings, who you voted for, and whether or not President Obama’s address should have been played for children at school. Regardless of whether or not you bought into the controversy hype, what our nation’s leader had to say about education was just the message that today’s students needed to hear — and from someone other than their parents and teachers!

After watching it again, I also realized much of the address can be applied to adult education and career advancement as well. Take a look:

“And no matter what you want to do with your life, I guarantee that you’ll need an education to do it.”

Translation >> Doing well in your career is easier when you’ve got a degree or training to back you up. That goes for landing a job, too, in this tough job market.

“I know a lot of you have challenges in your lives right now that can make it hard to focus on your schoolwork.”

Translation >> Kids? Aging parents? Work? Everyone has their own list of responsibilities, but if you’re creative, you can find a way to fit education in. Some people school online, others find programs that run nights and weekends. Lucky for you, there are many school options out there for busy adults.

“Where you are right now doesn’t have to determine where you’ll end up.”

Translation >> You’re not too old to take a class or go for a degree. You’re not stuck in your current career. You’re not destined to do the very thing you’re doing right now forever.

“So find an adult that you trust — a parent, a grandparent or teacher, a coach or a counselor — and ask them to help you stay on track to meet your goals.”

Translation >> Get a mentor. Ask for the support of your family and friends. Make friends with fellow classmates and colleagues who are on the same path as you. Exploit online social networking.

When it comes to education, there’s always something more to learn. Yesterday, I learned that a positive message doesn’t have to have an agenda, even if it’s stamped with a presidential seal. Sometimes, it’s just a good message.

-Dawn Papandrea