Kenzie Raub 24': A Passionate Writer

by Helen Hertz


​Kenzie Raub, ‘24, has had an interest in developing her writing skills since age 8. 

“I think I first started writing around fourth grade,” Raub said “I would write short stories, or things I thought would turn into books.”

 Raub, a 15-year-old, now in grade 10, and hasn’t stopped writing. Surprisingly, her passion for writing does not originate from a love for reading.

 “To be honest I’ve never really been a big fan of reading,” she said, “I’ve just always loved writing.” 

While Raub may not spend as much time reading as writing, she still has an appreciation for all things horror, particularly short horror stories. 

“I love scaring myself,” Raub said, “I try to write stuff like that to provoke emotion.” 

Raub recently read “Scythe,” a futuristic sci-fi novel, which she feels is very similar to her own writing style. She also extolled Neal Shusterman, the author of “Scythe”.

“I love Neal Shusterman,” Raub said, “I feel like his writing felt so much like mine, the way he describes things and makes his characters interact.”
 
The vast majority of Raub’s writing has been centered around her own love of horror. 

“I like to write murder mysteries and horror,” Raub said, “Maybe slip some romance and fluffy stuff in there.” 

She admits it's a bit of a “weird combination” but enjoys writing it nonetheless.

Along with writing, Raub is also passionate about drama. 

“I’ve been in drama club since sixth grade,” Raub said, “but I've always been in little musicals since about third grade.” 

Raub has been consistent in her acting since. Last school year she was cast as Mary Debenham in North Cross’s production of “Murder on the Orient Express,” which was an all virtual production. Raub hopes to get back out on the stage this coming year.

Though Raub enjoys acting and performing, she sees it as less of an option for a career. 
“I wanted to be an actress for a long time, along with being a writer,” she said, “But now I think I’m more focused on the author side.” 

She might not be as focused on acting anymore, but Raub still is entertaining the idea of voice-acting. 

“I really like the idea of voicing characters on TV shows,” Raub said, “Like on Spongebob one day my voice just pops up.” 

Spongebob is a fairly popular show, Raub has certainly set her eyes on the prize.

The question of “Is writing a hobby or a future career?” seems to have a definite answer in Raub’s mind. 

“I’m hoping to go to college to do something with creative writing,” Raub said, “I do intend on becoming an author when I’m older.” 

She has already started scouting out colleges known for their writing programs. Raub has mentioned the possibility of attending the University of Virginia for their creative writing programs. 

Raub recently joined the Willis Hall Herald staff and is hopeful her writing skills will come in handy. 

“I feel like one of my strong points is description,” Raub said, “whether it be places, people, really anything.” 

Raub also hopes to write creatively in the Willis Hall Herald, whether it be her short stories or simply a few lines.

Journalism is truly very dependent on descriptive writing, so Raub will no doubt be a fast learner. 

“I’ve always loved writing,” Raub says, “I don’t really know where it came from, it just started one day and I just ran with it.”