LOS ALTOS, Calif. -- It's one thing to be an inspiration to your family and friends. On Tuesday morning, the story of Los Altos college freshman Andoni Schultz inspired a nation during President Obama’s speech to students across the country.

President Obama told Andoni's story as an example of overcoming obstacles.

"I'm thinking about Andoni Schultz.from Los Altos, California, who's fought brain cancer since he was three," said the President.

At that point in the speech, it was difficult for the young man and his family to contain their emotions.

"I was so excited," said Andoni. "I was just thinking 'Wow, that is so cool.' I mean, after all my achievements, all I've been through…Hearing my name spoken by the President, it was just amazing."

Steve Schultz, Andoni’s father, felt the President delivered a great lesson to students in the speech.

"It was an excellent message to kids; to work hard and overcome obstacles and stay in school," said Schultz.

Andoni’s mother Angie Schultz was equally proud. "I wish I hadn't put mascara on this morning," she said with a laugh. "I was crying."

The mention of Andoni was especially resonant at Homestead High in Cupertino, the school where he was a special education student.

Last year as a senior, he spent hundreds of extra hours studying in order to graduate with top honors. Despite all the hard work, Andoni still managed a full social life.

Andoni's sister Amaia said her brother's new fame was all the buzz at Homestead.

"It's crazy. I don't even know what drives him so much," said Amaia. "I feel like if I was in his situation, it'd be hard to get through it."

Teachers and administrators at the school also spoke highly of Andoni’s extraordinary efforts.

"You just wanted to give back to him because he gave so much to us, just in terms of inspiration," said the head of Homestead’s Special Education Department, Judi Annan-Roberts.

Andoni is currently a business major at Notre Dame de Namur in Belmont. His goals remain high. He plans to keep raising money to cure cancer.

"The day it comes, I will be just so excited," said Andoni. "Because I'll know that all that hard work paid off."