Thanks to Odyssey, there are countless opportunities to make your voice heard. It is such an amazing feeling when you see that people are commenting and talking about your work. As a seasoned Odyssey writer, allow me to tell you just a few of the many great benefits of joining our family!

1. Express Yourself

You have the right to express yourself in every way possible when it comes to Odyssey. We are such a diverse group of individuals that write about different things every single week. You have a chance to express your emotions and write your own opinions in article form. It makes much more of an impact compared to simply posting on Facebook.

2. Expand Your Portfolio

On a professional level, you are able to create a portfolio of published work. It shows what kind of writer you are. If you are looking to write news--you can do that with Odyssey. Your articles don't have to be personal if you don't want them to be. The more that you expand your published portfolio, the more likely you are to make it in the world of writing.

3. Join a Fun-Loving Community

This community has been nothing but fun for me, personally. We use GroupMe to send selfies, to catch up with each other, and to discuss each other's work. It is so important to be a good teammate, and this team will teach you exactly how to do so. You also get a chance to learn about all different social media platforms and utilize them.

4. Be as Creative as You'd Like

This is a place for you to be creative. It is your chance to think outside of the box and be recognized for it. Have people read your work--don't just keep it hidden away. You have a unique mind that we would love to hear from. It is so important to share what you're feeling. If you don't write about life, there will be no documentation for the future generations. We rely on writing to tell our stories.

5. Improve Your Writing Skills

I have personally learned so much about my writing through Odyssey. I have learned more about grammar and writing styles while creating new content each week. You get the chance to work one on one with an editor. Each community has a local Editor-in-Chief and a Content Strategist at HQ that will help you along the way! As writers, we need that kind of support.

6. Get Published!

Odyssey is an official website that is willing to publish YOUR work! It's completely free and gets your word out there. Are you working to write a novel? This is a great first step towards publishing.

7. Get Feedback on Your Work

Once again, we have people on our executive board team who are willing to focus on your article. They will edit it and even give you constructive feedback. Each piece of feedback will help you open your mind to new possibilities!

8. Have an Outlet for Your Emotions

As humans, we have emotions. It is so important to express those feelings rather than hiding them. I used to be so shy about how I was feeling until I joined Odyssey. I am now able to express my opinion publicly without fear of being judged. I have learned to take constructive feedback and utilize it. I am confident in my work and my emotions are very open.

9. Learn how to Manage Your Time

Odyssey has taught me valuable time management skills. I now have time to write, do school work and work a part-time job. This is such an important life skill and you can learn it here!

10. Be a part of the Odyssey Family

Our community is a family. We meet up voluntarily and get dinner. We get to know each other on a personal level. Overall, we are a family and stick together. You will never feel lonely with this family blowing up your phone!

11. Have Your Voice be Heard

In the end, it is vital to have a chance for your voice to be heard. Before I joined the Odyssey, I didn't have a place to tell my story. Utilize this opportunity and apply! I promise that you won't regret it.

If I don't have you convinced at this point in time...well, there is one more thing I can say to sway you. My life has changed for the better because of Odyssey. I am less shy, more attentive to detail, and overall...happier. Give us a chance and I promise you won't regret it. There is no foul for trying something new!