In high school, I had never heard of The Odyssey. Over the summer of my senior year, waiting for college to start, I saw someone posted about The Odyssey on Facebook. The class of 2020 has it's own Facebook page, where incoming students could communicate with each other and upperclassmen could give us advice/information. One of the things posted on the group page was a post about applying to write for the Odyssey. I chose to ask questions about the group, thinking it might be an opportunity I would enjoy. I'm glad I did. Becoming an Odyssey writer was an immensely satisfying decision.

1. They Answer Your Questions:

One of the things that I was concerned about with the Odyssey, was that I wouldn't fully understand what it was. I was worried I'd dive into something that I couldn't handle because I expected it to be something it wasn't. I was entirely wrong about this. Asking The Odyssey editors about the online platform was rather easy. They answered all my questions quickly and honestly. They told me how convenient and fun writing for the Odyssey would be.

2. Getting to Pick Any Topic You Want is So Much Fun:

One of the most impressive things about the Odyssey, is the ability to explore and create. It's a very fluid system. There's no strict structure that the writers have to adhere to. The writers are allowed to write about anything they chose. Topics can range from favorite foods to political opinions. Nothing is too crazy and nothing is rigid.

3. The Editors Will Give You Suggestion Lists For Writing:

You absolutely do not have to chose from the topics on these lists. The Odyssey editors only send out suggestion lists in case someone isn't feeling creative. Lack of the creativity can sometimes halt the writing process. I know it's happened to me on multiple occasions. The lists provided by the editors help stir up thought processes in the writers head. Sometimes the list provided by the editor won't give you an exact topic, but it might lead you to a topic you might be interested in. For example, the list might suggest writing about the pros or cons of feminism, which might lead you to writing a piece about the women's march. Or you might just pick something off the list and expand from there. Either way, the suggestion lists are evidently helpful.

4. They Work With Your Schedule:

The Odyssey editors are relatively easy-going. As long as you communicate, they typically work with your schedule. If you're going to be late on an article, let them know, they'll definitely give you time. Don't purposely try to avoid writing. That's just plain rude, but realize they know things come up. If a family emergency comes up or a big project in school, they'll give you time to write your article or they'll tell you not to worry about it for that week. You can always write one the upcoming week. They totally understand when life gets in the way. The Odyssey provides an understanding and fluidly creative environment for writers to express themselves.