Writing for Odyssey is an amazing thing. I should know. I started off as a regular content creator, worked my way up to becoming a Contributing Editor, and then finally, applied and got the position of Editor in Chief. Odyssey is an amazing publication that can provide students with a lot of opportunities if they take advantage of it. Here are some reasons that you should write for The Odyssey if you don't already.
1. You can write about literally whatever you want.
This is one of the initial things that drew me in about this publication. There are no restrictions (within reason) and the concept that you talk about can change from week to week. It can range anything from thoughts to school shootings, gun reform laws, or your reaction to the finale of The Bachelor.
2. You become part of a community.
My writers on my team are from all different backgrounds, different majors, different interests, etc. and that's what keeps our conversations interesting in our GroupMe! A main misconception about becoming a part of Odyssey is that you have to be an English or a Journalism major, but this is not true at all! I know people who are Odyssey content creators and they are Biology or Nursing majors. Regardless of our major or background, we are all part of a community and want the same things for Odyssey.
3. You meet some great people.
In our communities, we have so many people that you are bound to find someone that you click with. Also from time to time, we do cross-community competitions, so you get to meet people from other communities in different states as well! This can also push you outside of your comfort zone if you aren't used to talking to people that you don't know.
4. It's a great resume builder
This is a great way to beef up your resume no matter what position you were in; content creator, contributing editor etc. I've heard from some friends of mine that putting on your resume that you were part of Odyssey has helped secure them spots at the graduate school of their choice. It's definitely worth the time commitment that it takes weekly or biweekly.
5. It helps build your portfolio
For anyone who is a Journalism or English major, having a body of your work is a necessity. Why not start building your portfolio now with Odyssey? I have written more articles for Odyssey than I have ever written in my life and I am glad that I will have these articles in the future to help me potentially secure a job.
Overall, the list of reasons you should join Odyssey could probably go on and on. Each person takes away something different from the experience, but it is definitely an experience that is worth having. If you're even considering it, reach out to the EIC at the community near you!
