Since November of my freshman year of college, I've had the privileged to be a part of Odyssey. It has taught me invaluable lessons about myself, and without it, I wouldn't be the writer that I am today. Without it, I wouldn't be going to work in the field I am after I graduate. So, as my time on Odyssey comes to an end, I figured I would take the time to look back and reflect on the reasons why I've spent so much time with and will always be thankful for Odyssey.

1. Odyssey allows for inspiration

Odyssey is a forum that allows its writers from varying backgrounds, ideas, and writing experience to write exactly what they want to. With Odyssey, I was able to explore my personal writing style; because frankly, when I started, I had no idea what it was. I could write funny articles with 100 gifs, lifestyle articles on my favorite artists, or deep articles about social issues or personal feelings. Regardless of what you wrote, Odyssey inspires you to try something new each week in your articles.

2. Odyssey promotes growth

Odyssey makes management positions an actual possibility even for those who don't have as much work experience as they'd like. Not only can you easily move up through the company, but Odyssey provides the tools to become a better editor, writer and manager. They want to help every one of their members understand how to create fantastic content through their work, their packaging and even begin an understanding of utilizing social media to their benefit.

Something that's always stuck with me is that every manager in Odyssey HQ I've talked to has asked me what I've wanted out of this experience and emphasized they would do anything to help get to where I want to be.

I don't know about you, but that kind of encouragement makes me feel I could take on the world!

3. Odyssey holds you accountable

Odyssey holds each of its members accountable. As (most of us) are young college students, it's easy to get lost in the weekly hustle and bustle. With Odyssey, we have a consistent team that we get to be a part of, and isn't afraid to call us out when we've been slacking.

Don't get me wrong, it was so hard at times. School and extracurriculars are swirling around me each week, and it was difficult to generate a good article each week. But, no matter what's going on, Odyssey reminds you to get your article in every single week. They want you at your best because they've seen it.

As an editor, I found that Odyssey was always pushing me to innovate the way I was managing my community, and while at the time it might've been frustrating, it's molded me into the manager I am today. I know how to get people motivated, I can utilize social media for the benefit of a company and my community, I know the kind of content that will do well. Odyssey simply pushed you to be the best version of yourself.

4. Odyssey connects you to people all over the nation

I can honestly say a fourth of my Facebook friends are other writers, editors, and managers from Odyssey. You can't help it! You become such close friends with people on your team and other editors because they know exactly what you're going through when Odyssey get tough. They are there to uplift you through your rough weeks and celebrate your victorious ones.

With Odyssey, you'll find yourself walking around your campuses with a never-ending smile as you see friend after friend you've gotten to know through this organization.

Not only do you have friends at a personal level, but now, think of the professional contacts you're making! Again, so many people to have your back as long as you give Odyssey your best!

5. Odyssey allows you to make a difference.

I was always one of those writers who gravitated towards the social commentary/opinion articles. With Odyssey, I knew that if I had an issue with something, I could write an article and on some level, even just among those who saw my Facebook posts, could raise some awareness.

I am eternally grateful for a company that has given me just as much as I've given it, and I can't imagine my life without it; however, because of it, I know I will succeed.