I have been writing for Odyssey for almost a year now, and it has been an incredible experience. While writing for Odyssey I have written letters to my roommate, explained how I grew up to become Squidward and created numerous bucket lists. Over my time here I have learned many things about who I am as a person and as a writer, it has been an unforgettable experience.

1. I actually have a lot to say: I never thought I could write 50 articles of around 500 words each. To think that somewhere in my jumbled thoughts there were all of these ideas floating around amazes me.

2. I am a lot more opinionated than I thought.

3. People actually enjoy reading my articles; I knew that maybe a few people would read my articles and enjoy them, (thanks, Mom and Dad). But it is great to know that I have people who read my work and enjoy it.

4. Sometimes I don’t have a lot to say and that's okay; Once in a while, I sit and stare at a blank computer screen, or watch Netflix for another hour, or scroll through Pinterest or Facebook for a few ideas. Give it 2 hours and then an idea will come to me and maybe it’s not the greatest, but hey, failing is a part of life.

5. It’s not all about the number of views; I don’t care about how many views my articles get. As long as my articles are relevant and don’t make anyone feel unwelcome or unwanted. The idea of bashing someone else, or writing 12 things to say to my nonexistent boyfriend just because I want extra views is not okay in my opinion.

6. I’m interested in a wide variety of things I never imagined: During high school, I never would have imagined that I would have been writing about my fear of relationships, or the taboo about periods. But I realized that I am actually very passionate about it.

7. Writing each article helped me figure out who I am; Each time I wrote another word I expressed myself more and by doing that I now know a little bit more of who I am and who I want to be. I opened myself up to all of you, and I discover a bit of myself in every article.

8. Every article takes time and dedication; For a girl who procrastinates, writing an article every week became a daunting task. Friday nights are dedicated to articles. Every single week. I know I should try to do them earlier, but what else am I going to do on a Friday night?

9. I will never write weekly articles again. At least for the next few years of my life. As a student, it is difficult to juggle classes and extracurriculars, and jobs, and add writing for Odyssey, it adds up to a lot of stress.

10. I will never knowingly write anything that will objectify or insult any group of people or beliefs.

I have loved writing for Odyssey, but it is my time to sign off and continue discovering myself in other outlets. Thank you, everyone, for reading my articles and helping me express myself.

Flying for the last time

Former Queen of Genovia

Caitlin DeZwaan