Writing for Odyssey comes with its own perks. We get a great resume builder as well as real experience working with a real writing team and an editor and become familiar with the overall workflow of publishing. However, most people out there don't really know what Odyssey is, and ask questions or give their opinions about the legitimacy of our writing. All. The. Time.
Here are a few questions and things that Odyssey creators are tired of hearing.
1. What is Odyssey?
A place for millennials to complain. An online school newspaper, except not really. A really long Tweet. I've heard it all. The correct answer that I try to use is "an online publication that allows young students to gain editorial experience."
2. Do you get paid for it?
No, I don't. Do you get paid to post pictures of your coffee on Instagram? I'm doing this for the experience, not the money.
3. Wait, so are you, like, a real writer or not?
Sure? If that makes you stop asking questions. If by real writer you mean that I've been published, then yes, but no one is telling their friends about the latest Emily Little article.
4. Odyssey isn't real journalism – you know that, right?
I've heard this so many times now that it just rolls off my back. Everyone has their own personal opinion about what "real" journalism is. If you don't like our articles, don't read them. No one is forcing you to look at our content.
5. Doesn't all of that writing consume your life?
Look, life is what you make it. If you want to be stressed about deadlines and writing and onboarding, then yes, it will. If you learn to delegate and manage your time, then it doesn't have to take over.
6. Why aren't there any standards for Odyssey articles?
You can write whatever you want for Odyssey. This is how we show all viewpoints and all opinions on an equal playing field. You don't have to agree with every article that get's posted on the Facebook page (I don't, trust me).
I hope this helps you learn a little more about Odyssey and the things we deal with every day. We creators love what we do and don't pay attention to what haters have to say about our writing.
