I have always loved to write. Even as a young child, I wrote stories and poems. I took Creative Writing in high school, and I am majoring in English. So it makes sense that I jumped at the opportunity last summer to write for my school's newly formed chapter of Odyssey. Since I have seen so many people bashing The Odyssey on social media lately, there is no better time to share all of the positive aspects of writing for this website.

My favorite thing about Odyssey is that it gives millennials a voice. This is a platform where college students can speak up about any topic that we feel needs to be spoken about. Topics range from humorous and satirical articles to serious political articles to current events to listicles.

I am an English major, and I really love to write, so I enjoy writing for Odyssey because it gives me a break from the papers I have to write and allows me to write about things important to me personally or issues I find pressing. I have also gained experience in expressing myself more clearly, and I love being able to do that on such a large platform.

There are so many different opinions in the articles here, and no matter what your political opinions, religious beliefs, college major, or type of sense of humor are, there is something relatable for everyone. At least for my chapter, the biggest requirement for becoming an Odyssey writer is to have a love of writing. This opens the door for many different kinds of people to come together and write about issues from endless different perspectives.

Writing for Odyssey also provides good experience working with deadlines. Articles are due every week, and it can be a challenge when you hit a writer's block and are fresh out of ideas. I have typically been a write-when-the-inspiration-hits kind of writer, but this is so helpful for working under pressure.

The Odyssey chapters are great communities. I have developed friendships through Odyssey with people I may have never crossed paths with otherwise. We work together to share ideas and share each other's articles to get each other's opinions out there.

If you see Odyssey as a website where spoiled millennials whine about how hard their lives are, I encourage you to take another look. Not to say none of that exists, but there are many of us using this website in a professional way.

I know many of my articles have a political focus, addressing important issues in the Presidential race and critiquing, or applauding, government policies. This is a place where young people talk seriously and openly about things that are very important not only in their lives but also on a national or international level.

Overall, Odyssey is a fantastic opportunity to better your writing skills, learn to work with a team of writers and editors, and find your voice. To all my fellow writers, keep up the good work and continue making Odyssey such a wonderful community to be a part of!