As I sit and write this, I truly can't believe that it's been one whole year that I've been writing for Odyssey. As my journey comes to a close, I've been able to reflect on how truly awesome this experience has been. Not only have I grown as a writer, but I have grown as a person. When I began writing for Odyssey, I was in my sophomore year, just beginning to look into a career that somehow involved writing. Now well into my junior year, I have decided to pursue a career in Public Relations and have realized that this experience has been invaluable. It really doesn't seem that long ago that I sat down with my now boss to discuss what Odyssey is and the benefits of writing for what this online platform would be.

Similar to life, my writing has had its highlights and its downfalls. There were moments that inspiration hit me and I could barely contain myself from writing. There were other days when I would realize a few hours before a deadline that my article was due. I would scramble to put something on paper, that probably wasn't any good. However, some of my favorite writing experiences have been born in these moments. How could I possibly forget writing an entire article about how "Shrek" is the greatest cinematic masterpiece of our time?

Every week I chose to write about a topic that was either on my mind or something that was close to my heart. In ways, writing for Odyssey was almost like writing in a diary. I was able to share moments of triumph, sadness, embarrassment and every emotion in between. One of the aspects I loved most about this platform is the freedom to write about whatever I wanted and in whatever style I wanted to write it in. There were weeks when I would wear a journalist's hat and try my odds at writing a serious piece regarding current issues. There were other weeks when I thought I was a comedian and created ridiculous listacles. Having the option to switch back and forth between styles is a rare opportunity.

Before Odyssey, I had never written in any sort of public format, only the occasional essay or research paper. I actually didn't even realize how much I enjoyed writing until Odyssey came along. As this journey comes to a close, I want to thank my boss, peers and everyone who has taken the time to read my articles. Thank you all, from the bottom of my heart. Thank you.