Born in 1954, Condoleezza Rice made a quick start on her path to eventually becoming the first Black woman to be U.S. Secretary of State. At a young age, Rice hoped to become a concert pianist, according to Britannica. However, at the age of fifteen, she entered the University of Denver and earned a Bachelor's degree in International Relations.
Her schooling continued further as she pursued a doctorate in political science. The Department of State mentions that Rice soon began her career in politics as an advisor to the Joint Chiefs of Staff in 1987. Two years later, Rice was appointed the director of Soviet and Eastern European Affairs on the NSC (National Security Council).In 2001, President George W. Bush raised her position in Washington DC by promoting her to National Security Advisor. Ever the go-getter, Rice did not make this the peak of her career. In 2005, Rice replaced Colin Powell's position as Secretary of State.
Rice kept this position until she was succeeded by former First Lady Hilary Rodham Clinton. Throughout her experience, Rice paved the way for women of color in politics. Since her retirement from office, Rice has written multiple books sharing her experience and the lessons she learned along the way.
