I applied for Odyssey because I not only enjoyed writing, but because I liked the idea of being able to relate to someone through my articles. Before applying, I read through many Odyssey articles and loved knowing I wasn't alone. Knowing that my friend applied to write articles, I knew I wanted to be the one writing those as well. I remember being so proud of my first article, Why I Code. I remember the feeling of seeing my shares go up and up on my article about Advocare's spark drink. It felt motivating to know how many people felt the same way I did. I loved sharing my experience at the Grace Hopper Conference. I also enjoyed sharing what I was thankful for on Thanksgiving through my video, What I'm Thankful For. Odyssey gave me a voice. Eight months and many articles/videos later, I'm still thankful for the opportunities Odyssey has given me.

I was offered the Editor-In-Chief position at the University of Nebraska Omaha a month after joining the team. I was trusted to take lead by editing articles, hiring/recruiting new creators and creating a team culture. I had no idea that I would learn so much in this role. I learned the importance of creating a strong culture. This could be as simple as sending a "Good Morning" GIF through our GroupMe or as personal as giving creators advice on their articles and being their "go-to" person. I was the person that helped motivate them to write and am happy to have met some creative and great writers. They inspired me to continue to be a better EIC day by day.

The best part of being EIC were the moments that someone told me, "Thank you for the advice!", "Your article inspired me!", or "Thank you for giving me to opportunity to write!". I also loved reading one of my creators articles, How Joining Odyssey Changed Me. From those comments and that article, I knew I was making a difference. For me, this experience wasn't about making money, getting shares or going viral but instead it was about being a role model and improving my leadership skills.

Now while I'm sad to leave such a great group of writers and company, I'm excited for the next EIC to get what I got out of the experience. It went by way too fast, as do all great things. Thank you, Odyssey.