When I tell people that I write for the Odyssey, people often ask me why. This is not something that generally happens to other people when they tell their friends what they are doing with their lives. There seems to be a stigma about the Odyssey that is not quite positive. I'm asked things such as, "But like, you don't get paid right? They're just exploiting your work." "That's so stupid. why do you waist your time writing?" "So wait, it's all online? How do you say you've made 'friends' if you're always behind a screen?" Well folks, today I'm going to tell you why I write for the Odyssey.
1. I'm passionate about it.
Not only did I start out writing for the Odyssey soon after one was installed here at Washington College, but it was something my freshman year roomie and I had done together. While writing- or rather, publishing- is something that I want to pursue professionally, it's just something that she really likes to do. We've been able to watch our small community here grow, so it's hard to just leave it behind. I'm so proud of it and my writings.
2. It's great experience.
Being able to sharpen my writing skills with like-minded people is a really rewarding experience. We're able to give each other ideas and pointers and talk about what works for us and doesn't work. As someone who wishes to be a publisher someday, working on publishing my own writings on a smaller scale gives me a good idea of what it will be like to actually work in the 'real world.'
3. It's good for networking.
It's always good to have something else to add to your resume, but it's even better to meet people who can help you further down the line. The Odyssey Team is super helpful and really want to aid you in whatever journey you're on, whether it is on the writing business or not.
4. You meet cool people.
I was able to connect with people at my school that I may not have met were it not for The Odyssey. The other cool thing about working for The Odyssey means you get to do a lot from the comfort of your own room. People are more comfortable chatting behind the screen in most cases so we're able to bond over silly pictures we send each other and things that happen to us during the day. It's easy to communicate ideas to them when you read an interesting article and you can just send it in the groupchat.
5. I damn like it.
I like writing and The Odyssey gives me a reason to write. I have the freedom to write whatever I want and get to express my opinions on matters. I like it, so I'm gonna keep doing.
