I'll try my best to make this not seem like a shameless promotion. Just keep reading.

I've noticed that the patterns in recent Odyssey articles are along these lines: I'm giving you advice because I think I've got life figured out; I'm giving you a list of things that are trendy in pop culture and fashion; I'm telling you a story about my life that I hope you can maybe relate to; I'm defending the Greek community, because for some reason, we need to keep reminding each other that we're a part of a great organization; and finally, this is who was nominated to be Bachelor/Bachelorette of the Week.

I give credit to the talented writers that we have on staff. It's incredible, the level of creativity, thoughtfulness in word choice, and dedication that our writers have to put their thoughts into our words. It's intimidating to create relevant and interesting content every week when I don't feel qualified enough to tell you how to live your life, nor do I always feel confident enough in my opinions to share them with the public. Think about it -- you offer your musings in life and all of the knowledge and opinions you have to share with your peers, family, and strangers. Who would ever want to give themselves up for that kind of vulnerability?

For this reason, writers are fearless. I've read articles from writers on other campuses who have been painfully criticized for their content. I've read Odyssey articles that received half a million shares because readers feel compelled to share those 500 words with the world. And college students who are reading articles to guide them through life are asked to offer their own reflections as writers for The Odyssey.

I take for granted the platform that I have, to make a difference in the lives of others. I am given a microphone that not all get to hold, and I can say whatever I want. I have that power because someone believed in the capacity of my words, yet too often I shrink back and hide behind interviews with fellow Greeks about their love lives. (Side note: If you haven't read my Bachelor/Bachelorette of the Week articles, then I'm not sure where you've been.)

I dare you to write for The Odyssey. I dare you to write an Open Submission or apply to be a staff writer. Haven't you read an article and wanted to counter it? Or haven't you come across a thought that you really want to figure out for yourself from beginning to end? Even if you don't write for the public, start out by just writing for yourself. Writing leads to self-awareness and an emotional intelligence that no other practice can create.

What would happen if you were given the same opportunity that I have? What would you write about?