The semi-finals took place on Wednesday, and during the show host LaVar Burton sat down with First Lady Dr. Jill Biden. Dr. Biden spoke about his own experience with the spelling bee in 6th grade.

“We had a spelling bee in my class and I won that spelling bee,” Dr Biden said. “I had to take it to the next level but I was so scared to speak in public that the next day I told my mum I was sick and not going to school and not going to never in the spelling bee.”

Dr. Biden went on to speak widely in public, both as an English teacher and first lady. She has been a strong supporter of education, especially the inclusion of women in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). But it wasn’t always like this.

“Just getting on stage scared me to death,” Dr Biden said. “And we have to learn to take risks, I think.”

Dr Biden doubled down on her own advice, when asked if she would have done things differently in her spelling days. She said, “You know, I was like, ‘You know what? Take risks, Jill. Have a little confidence in yourself and you will be surprised because you can do it.

finals air Thursday at 8 p.m. EST on ION.

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