The last few weeks have been some of the most newsworthy in Barack Obama’s presidency.  The commander-in chief-has made several big announcements that promise to take our country in a new direction.

First, Obama has managed, in some small part, to accomplish what Congress continues to argue about and refuse to take action on: immigration reform.  His plan would give amnesty to many and prevent further familial tearing. 

His immigration reform plan also promises to bring more money into the economy, as those who were here illegally will not be able to pay taxes or make purchases without harassment or threat of deportation.

The president has also put an end to the embargo placed on Cuba and laid out plans to open a new embassy in Havana. Political prisoners have been set free, and normalized relations are within the scope of the foreseeable future. 

Now Obama has announced plans to make two years of community college free for all Americans.  Such action would have positive and tangible benefits for United States citizens, providing the skills needed to compete in a competitive and swiftly evolving job market.

Not only will two years of school be free for Americans, but the plan is comparatively affordable for the nation as well.  CNN reports that this community college plan will cost 60 billion dollars over 10 years.  For reference, that’s one tenth of the defense budget for just one year.

Attending a university costs a ridiculous sum of money these days, and, unlike our parents, we cannot work for a summer to afford our tuition.  By expanding access to higher education, Obama has given more Americans the tools and training they need to reach high goals and attain the job of their dreams.

He’s done this at precisely the right time, too.  Bloomberg reports an unemployment figure of 5.7 percent, and the economy has seen its largest period of sustained job growth in history during the president’s tenure.  President Obama is truly building a stronger nation.

Pundits accuse the president of abusing his power by bypassing the legislative system with these executive orders, but the fact of the matter is that these orders have been the name of the game since Franklin Roosevelt was in office.

If you don’t like Obama’s quick and decisive action, blame Congress.  Capitol Hill has consistently attempted to undermine the president and outright refuses to negotiate or work with him.  Congress has made its bed; let them lie in it.

Obama’s use of executive orders can be seen as powerful, but not defining.  These orders have not been issued to bypass Congress, but because of absolute necessity as gridlock and legislative blackmail blocked any action from taking place.

At a time when the president is expected to become a lame duck, President Obama has forged onward with a dedication to his nation unseen for years.  As he leads from the White House, he does so with compassion and proves that what he does, he does for the people.

In an interview with the New York Times, Obama said he would not worry about his legacy.  From my perspective, it seems as though his will be great and leave little to worry about. 

This president is my president.