Apple pie, Bill Clinton and bald eagles — yes, I am talking about America.

Last week I wrote a story about the international players on the UNA soccer team and how they are adjusting to life in the U.S.

When I asked them what they thought about America, their faces lit up with excitement and they told me how much they love it here.

They did not even have to say anything because I could just tell by the looks on their faces they were glad to be here.

One of the players said if she could describe the U.S. in one word it would be “opportunity.”

I was honestly amazed at their reactions to the question. The girls looked as happy as Al Gore in a hybrid car.

I suddenly realized sometimes I take living in this country for granted, and I think most feel the same.

I complain about the gas prices and I complain about how there are more squirrels on this campus than places to park.

But right now I am getting the education I need to choose whatever career path I want. That is my right — a right I take for granted.

There are many more rights I take for granted also.

Last week a campus official sent out an email concerning a story The Flor-Ala published about SNAP, and the email put the credibility of the paper into question.

The writer of the story actually performed her job correctly, however, the individual she interviewed did not. She had proof she reported it correctly thanks to having a recording of the conversation.

The Flor-Ala then published a follow up story to prove it, too.

It is the press’ job to seek the truth and report it. This is one of the reasons I chose to major in journalism and hopefully I will make a career out of it.

And thanks to the First Amendment, The Flor-Ala was able to report on the truth without facing any legal issues.

The First Amendment is beautiful — almost as beautiful as Shakira.

And it is an awesome feeling to know the freedom of the press is reigns 365 days a year.

As a journalist I cannot be more thankful for the First Amendment.

I have the opportunity to choose whatever career choices I want, and the one I choose happens to deal directly with the First Amendment.

I will do my best not to take living in this nation for granted.

Every morning I will wake up and picture Theodore Roosevelt riding a bald eagle, with the Bill of Rights in one hand and the Declaration of Independence in the other.

Nicholas Cage will not be getting his filthy hands on it either. Now, how glorious is that?

Opportunity is sweet to have, ladies and gentlemen. Be thankful America offers it.