look at the success, for example, of someone like President Obama who has shown that a talented African American can rise to the top.
The thing I always emphasize is the importance of preparation — the importance of trying to obtain a level of excellence. And I focus on the concept of excellence as the goal that they should strive toward because, if you have excellent training, you will not only do well in your profession, but you will have options. Try to maximize your abilities, whatever your abilities are.