While many high school students have jobs at places like fast food restaurants and grocery stores, senior Brett Knepper has found himself pursuing a job within his desired career path. Knepper has joined the Newton Now staff to begin writing news stories and was first recommended to write for Newton Now by his father.

“He was the one who talked to Adam Strunk and kind of mentioned he had a son that enjoys creative writing. Adam contacted me and asked me to do a story,” Knepper said

Knepper’s first story was about University of Kansas wide receiver and kickoff return specialist Ryan Schadler. The story outlined his battles with adversity.

“It’s a recovery story because last season he was out because of a really bad surgery,” Knepper said.

Knepper said he and the Schadler family enjoyed the story coverage.

“It was really cool being able to talk to the guy. I got to meet his father and his dad said he really enjoyed the article. It made him tear up and that was when I really knew that I had a chance at being a writer,” Knepper said.

Knepper said his work with the Schadlers is hopefully the first of many stories that will allow him to pursue his passion of writing, both journalistic and creative.

“I would very much like to do that for my career. I feel most people who write have an idea of what they are wanting to do in life. Like for myself, my dream goal would be to write a novel,” Knepper said.

Knepper, a member of the drama department, is a fan of many creative poems and stories. Knepper plans to join the Newton City Writers Guild in the near future. Thanks to his experience, Knepper knows exactly what a clear storyline means to writing, whether it be creative or news-related.

“You’re expected to get the total facts [in journalism] and it’s based around quotes and interview situations more than what you see as a writer. With journalism, you’re creating a pathway for the readers to follow along, whereas when doing creative writing you can create characters and the story itself,” Knepper said.

Knepper’s story about Schadler can be found online at NewtonNow.com.