When I read about applying to go to Bonnaroo for The Odyssey, I immediately started listing off the artists attending. I am an absolute music junkie but don't have any musical talent myself. When I was in fifth grade I sang Kelly Clarkson's “Since You've Been Gone" at the school talent show and I can actually recall people plugging their ears. I think that may be what shapes my love of music; I admire the talent those artists have because it's so distant from me. Bonnaroo and other music festivals mark our generation. I decided rather than trying to tell you why I should be chosen to go and cover the event, I would let the millennials themselves tell you! I asked my friends the question, “What is it about my writing that you think people like and why should I write more?" I didn't want sculpted answers so told them it was for a project.

Here is some of the project:

Bryce: “You're in touch with your college peers but graced with a witty and insightful voice that shows maturity beyond your years."

Jade: “I would say your ability to make the subject matter interesting and captivating regardless of the topic, paired with transparency and honest spirit, are qualities that make your writing unique and leave us wanting more. You share a piece of yourself with the audience each time you write that is undeniably relatable, which not only peaks readers' interests, but also evokes a menagerie of emotions."

Kirby: “Your writing is relatable and isn't pretentious. It describes what I'm feeling."

Kristi: “Your writing is natural, honest, fun to read, and relatable. It's what many may feel but don't always say out loud… I'd love to see more of your writing because part of my daily routine is scrolling through Facebook…and similar articles to your writing are the kind I always click on."

Zack: “I think people enjoy your writing because you have a unique perspective that gives life to otherwise ordinary phenomena. I want to see you write more because the more you push and challenge yourself, the more creative your content is. Plus, your *stuff* makes me lol."

Ashley: “The words you use…you make it relatable to everyone, not just a select few…not just Clemson students but to the whole world. You open eyes to something everyone knows but doesn't take the time to "listen" to and you make them stop and listen."

James: “Her style of writing is incredibly genuine. She tells stories and a person can immediately imagine a real life scenario while reading them."

McKenna: “Your writing is real and genuine. I like it because it is straightforward and you hold nothing back. You speak your mind...without fear of the opinions of others. It is funny, easy to read, and it leaves me wanting more."

Chris: “Your writing is captivating… Bam!"

Ultimately, this isn't just about writing. I think that with an experience like this it's important to be able to balance professionalism and fun. It's an incredible opportunity to grow as a writer. I've never attended Bonnaroo so I'd enter as a blank slate, ready for a new experience. I like to think that I'm in touch with my generation but can step back from it too, and ultimately I think that is what allows me to write from the perspective that I have. Also, I've got the perfect dress to wear and it would be such a waste to miss an awesome fashion opportunity. It's a once in a lifetime chance and if I got chosen to represent my The Odyssey at Bonnaroo, I would definitely go get ice cream to celebrate, with sprinkles, because sprinkles are for winners.