You might first ask yourself, well what exactly is Odyssey? Odyssey democratizes the way stories are told online. We believe multiple perspectives, opinions, and ideas should be captured and heard, shared, and amplified on a worldwide scale. We do not have a particular voice tone or style.

Now you might ask yourself, so what are the requirements? You don't have to be a certain major or year to join. You can write about anything that you want, given that it is respectable. That includes poetry, fiction, non-fiction, listicles, etc! The creative freedom is infinite. You can even incorporate photography and videography. To see specifically Illinois State's Community click here! Now that you have a basic understanding of Odyssey, this is why you should join.

1. It’s perfect for both introverts and extroverts

If you don’t like human interaction, fine by us! Whether or not you want to interact with other Creators on your team, it isn't required. All of your work is done on your own time. If that involves writing in your dark room at 2 AM on your laptop, or with your fellow Creators, it's really up to you.

2. It's great for your resume

I have been a Creator for Odyssey since last September. Since then I have over 14.K+ views and 3K+ engagements. Each Creator learns the best way to market their articles and distribute them through various social media platforms. At Illinois State, we also have an Executive Board, with opportunities for Creators to become more involved.

3. In fact, it will show future employers that you are capable of meeting deadlines

This is GOLD in the professional world. Being able to say that you were able to meet a deadline every week, is very impressive. Employers want to ensure that who they are hiring is dependable.

4. You will automatically build a social media following

You have the chance to gain thousands of followers. If someone likes your writing and sees your content, they can follow your page. Your Facebook friends will start to read and share your articles every week. All around the world, people have the chance to read your work!

5. You will not only join Odyssey at Illinois State but Odyssey as a whole!

You might already have friends from other colleges who write for Odyssey, but now you have the chance to meet more! When you become a Creator for Odyssey, you join a family of writers who have the same goal; to have their voices heard.

6. It’s a great opportunity

If you have ever thought to yourself, maybe I should start a blog. Then you got discouraged because who would want to read it? With Odyssey, you already have a social following. Millions of people around the world follow the Odyssey website daily. Many stumble upon article after article, reading Creators articles.

7. It builds your professional portfolio

This one's for the aspiring journalist, photographers, and videographers. Being apart of our team here will force you to build your portfolio. Since sometimes it might be hard to do this on your own,

8. You will have editorial feedback on your work

Odysseys headquarters is located in New York City. There, we have AMAZING content strategists who are more than willing to schedule a one on one call with Creators! Also, each community has a specific Content Strategist who oversees the entire community. Shout out to Illinois State's awesome CS!

9. Have your voice be heard

Do you ever feel like some people just don’t get it? This is your chance to have your work published and have more people see through your eyes. Chances are, other people are thinking the same thing you are, they just don't know how to have their voice heard. Or, they need to hear your perspective to think differently.

10. You have the power to spread word on campus

There are always tons of events going on at Illinois State. You can cover these events, and even promote some. Depending on your career path, this can be perfect for marketing majors, event planners, design majors, and much more.

11. You will grow as a writer

At first, I honestly never even considered myself a writer. Sure, I wrote in my journal little quotes and sayings, however, I didn't write consistently. It wasn't until Odyssey that I really saw that I have the potential to be a great writer. Looking back from when I started writing, until now, the growth is amazing!

12. It will build your credibility

Depending on what you want to write about, you can gain a following in which certain people on the web will go to your page to read. You can, and should, take advantage of the hyperlinks that you can include to show your research process!

13. You will join our family!

Being apart of something is always an amazing feeling. A few people on our team can say that they have found their best friends because of Odyssey! Join our family by filling out this application and I will contact you shortly!