Dear Odyssey,
When I applied to write for Odyssey, I wasn't sure what I was doing with my life. I was stuck in the wrong major, planning for my future in a job that I knew I would hate. All I knew was that I loved writing and this was an opportunity for me to do that.
Once I started writing weekly articles, I realized that this was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. No, I don't mean writing articles like 15 Things Every Only Child Can Relate To (my first article), but I knew I could spend the rest of my life writing. So, I changed my major to journalism.
From the moment that I switched my major, I felt a weight come off of me. I was finally going to pursue something that I wanted to do, not just something that I could force myself to do because it would make me money. Odyssey reminded me of what I wanted to do and it showed me that I was actually pretty good at it.
When the opportunity came to apply to be a contributing editor for my community, I jumped on it. This opportunity showed me that not only did I like writing, but I also loved editing. I've always had an eye for finding typos and grammar mistakes and now I was able to use this "skill" besides annoying my friends with my corrections.
After a few months of editing as a contributing editor, I was offered the position of Editor-in-Chief. I didn't even think twice, and I'm so glad I didn't. Although there is a lot that goes into being EIC that I didn't know before accepting, I've never regretted it. Not only has Odyssey helped me grow as a writer and person, but because of this position, I've been able to see all of the writers in my community grow as well.
The leadership and communication skills that I've learned and am continuing to learn because of this position have helped me in all aspects of life. And having the opportunity to allow others in my community to share their thoughts and have their voice heard on this platform is definitely the best part of the job.
I thank you for giving me an outlet, for helping me find my passion. For giving me mentors to help me with anything and everything. For showing me what I can do and for allowing me to continue to do this every week. For giving me connections in my campus community and the Odyssey community. For friendships and experience. For everything.
Thank you, Odyssey.
Love, an EIC.
