Gen. Colin L. Powell offered entertainment, advice and a brief overview of his years as a member of the U.S. government during his visit to Southeast Missouri State University as the first speaker of the 2012-2013 Speaker Series.

Powell began his speech, which was held in the Show Me Center on Tuesday, by speaking about being the U.S. Secretary of State under President George W. Bush from 2001 to 2005 and National Security Adviser for President Ronald Reagan from 1987 to 1989.

Powell then spoke of his retirement from the US Army in 1993 and how it led to boredom and depression that led to him becoming more involved in politics and start speaking to individuals from college students to financial advisers dealing with economic problems.

He also promoted his new book "It Works for Me" and gave the audience advice on the overall economy. Powell insisted that doing research on current issues and the economy in general would prevent many from considering the government as "Superman."

"I think he hit the nail on the head quite a few times when he provided the audience with non-partisan ways of handling most of the economic issues of the nation," said Andrew Scott, a Southeast senior who attended the presentation.

Scott said he gave Powell a nine out of 10 on his overall performance.

Powell said that voting isn't a privilege, it's an obligation.

Scott said this was one of the statements he agreed with and applauded overall.