Dear Odyssey Writers:

It's amazing that we have the opportunity to reach out to so many through online publications. We start with a blank slate and form it into whatever inspires us. We have the ability to inform, uplift, and share stories with each other and millions of other college students.

After becoming an Odyssey writer this past semester, I have noticed that a lot of popular articles talked about relationships, breakups, fighting over what is okay to wear, and roommates. This is obviously great and super relatable information for college students, but I challenge us to dig deeper.

By writing so many articles about relationships as a whole, it seems that our value and life revolves around having a S/O or not. I have to admit, I have written a few articles about my boyfriend, but it always feels cliche and something I do that I know will get a lot of views.

Let's dig deeper than focusing on relationship statuses. There is so much more to life.

Odyssey in itself resembles sharing stories through the ups and downs of life.

It's about finding our common purpose. I challenge us to be more vulnerable this semester and to tell stories of ourselves and others. Let’s continue to share our weakness, strengths, and late night reflections.

We all struggle with something whether it be anxiety, FOMO, comparison, or perfectionism. If we share our struggles we can feel more united in them.

Let’s tell the story of others who deserve to be heard. Maybe of our parents, or a stranger we met, or a refugee story we read.

Let’s not just see Odyssey as a platform to list relatable college things, but to change the world and share our ideas.

Yes, relationships are important. Yes, college roommates are important. And yes what you wear matters. But it all comes down to our human desire for love and belonging. Let’s embrace the vulnerability of our humanity. Let’s comes together with voices of encouragement, change, and discernment. We shouldn’t just focus on the superficial stuff, but turn inward.

Sincerely,
A fellow odyssey writer