Why do I write for The Odyssey?

I write to make people laugh.

Because laughter is the best kind of medicine. Because there is no better pick-me-up than a good laugh. In a world where we see so much hate, I want to give the world a smile.

I write to share my thoughts.

Because I have an opinion, and I believe every opinion matters - even when it differs from my own. Odyssey allows me to reach a wider audience with whatever I feel is needed that week. Be it a poem, a list or an article on today's news...

I write to keep people informed.

Because people don't talk enough about the Dakota Access Pipeline. They don't talk enough about Flint, Michigan. They don't talk enough about things more important than who left The Bachelor in this week's episode.

I write for the experience.

I've learned so far that not every article is going to go viral. I've also learned that's okay. As a writer, you can't expect every person reading your articles to like every single one. There isn't a bad article, but maybe it doesn't resonate with your audience as much as you had hoped. Just breathe, accept it and write another one.

I write because it makes me feel good.

I love having a platform to share my ideas, my thoughts, my feelings. Writing is a stress reliever. It soothes me. I can always type something up, and it's my decision to share or not. I have a whole notebook, plus my Google Drive, full of stories, poems and phrases that I haven't worked into pieces quite yet. Will I share them? Not yet.

I write for my nieces.

Because I want them to see that their opinions matter as much as anyone else's. Inside or outside of the classroom, I want them to know they can do anything if they work hard, and put their minds to it. I want them to believe in their dreams, and strive to achieve them. I want them to be able to look up at me and think, "Well Isabel did it, and so can I."

I write for my grandma.

Because she's believed in me from day one. She was there, not only when I knew I could succeed at something, but she was also there when I doubted myself. My grandma loves me, no matter what I go through. I know she will always be by my side, so I write to make her proud.

Why do I write for The Odyssey?

Do you even have to ask?